By Gering Police Department and Torch Run Committee
The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics will be held Monday May 15, 2023. Participants will gather in the parking lot of the Scotts Bluff National Monument beginning at 4:30pm, with the Torch Run starting at 5:30. Cost for registration is $25 and includes a t-shirt. Registration will take place on site.
Runners will travel along historic Old Oregon Trail Road into Gering. The Torch Run will conclude at Legion Park in Gering with a light meal to follow. Participants can run, walk, ride a bicycle, and enjoy the sights along the way. You can choose how much of the route you want to do.
The Torch Run is open to anyone who would like to participate and show your support for Special Olympics. Scottsbluff Public Schools will have participants in the Torch Run from their special education program, as well as the Reconnect Program.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics began in 1981 in Wichita Kansas under the direction of Chief Richard LeMunyon. From that point the Torch Run movement has grown into the single largest public awareness and fund raising group for Special Olympics International. The goal of the Torch Run and all the events that fall under the umbrella of the LETR is to raise public awareness about Special Olympics and to bring about acceptance and inclusion for Special Olympics athletes.
If anyone has questions about the Torch Run or if you would like to donate financially, please contact Sheriff Mark Overman at 436-6667 or Captain Jason Rogers of the Gering Police Department at 436-5089.