Special Olympics Torch Comes to Clayton

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

The 18 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. They were joined by members of the Selma Police Department, the State Probation & Parole and the State Juvenile Justice officers.

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, Cary and Apex. The run helps raise awareness—and money. Since the run began in 1987, the officers have raised more than $16.5 million.

More than 1,200 special athletes from across the state--plus hundreds of coaches, family members and volunteers--gathered last 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 contact Susan Allen at 919-553-7410 for more information.