Special Olympics Torch Comes Through Clayton

The Special Olympics torch made its way through Clayton Thursday, June 3, carried to the Wake County line by members of the Clayton Police Department.

The officers ran about six miles down US 70 as their part in the 2,000-mile, 15-day "Flame of Hope" torch run involving more than 2,500 law enforcement officers and officials, representing more than 200 law enforcement agencies from across the state.

Each summer, law enforcement officials carry the Flame across the state in The Torch Run Final Leg, culminating in the lighting of the cauldron to officially open the Special Olympics North Carolina Summer Games in Raleigh and Cary, which begin Friday. The run helps raise awareness—and money.

More than 1,500 special athletes from across the state--plus more than 600 coaches, 500 family members and 800 volunteers--are expected in Raleigh and Cary this weekend to compete in events such as aquatics, gymnastics, power lifting, softball and volleyball.

Donations to the Special Olympics can be made through the Police Department by purchasing the official NC Law Enforcement Torch Run T-shirt for $13 and/or the official baseball cap for $15. Please drop by the Department at 201 S. Barbour Street or contact Susan Allen at 919-553-7410.