 We Support Our Troops
and Their Mission
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Law Enforcement Special Olympics Torch Run |
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On Thursday June 2nd, 2011 members of the Tustin Police Officer’s Association and Tustin Police Department, participated in the annual Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run as it traveled through Tustin.
Tustin representatives received the “Flame of Hope” torch from members of the Irvine Police Department and carried it over five miles, where they handed it off to members of the Santa Ana Police Department and F.B.I. |
During the hour that the torch traveled through Tustin, special needs students from Currie Middle School joined the Tustin representatives along the way. The route began westbound on Edinger Avenue and continued northbound on Red Hill. From there, runners jogged westbound on Sycamore Avenue passing Currie Middle School and continuing all the way to Newport Avenue where they traveled northbound to Walnut Avenue. After running eastbound on Walnut, the Tustin athletes then went southbound on Red Hill Avenue and finally westbound Edinger Avenue to Ritchie Street where the torch was handed off by Capt. Charlie Celano to members of the Santa Ana Police Department.
TPOA Members have dedicated themselves to participate in this important event for over 25 years. Over $5,000 was raised by Tustin representatives this year for the Special Olympics. TPOA Member and Special Olympics Torch Run Liaison for the event Pam Hardacre said, “The reason I have participated in this event for so many years is because of the looks on the children’s faces as we run with them past their school while their classmates, faculty and parents cheer them on. It’s truly a grateful experience.”
TPOA President Jeff Taylor stated, “It is an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to interact with and support such tremendous athletes. They are true heroes within our community and we wish them the very best of luck and sportsmanship in their competitions.”
If the public would like to donate to the Special Olympics, they may contact Detective Pam Hardacre at (714) 573-3248.
The original Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981 in Whichita, Kansas after police sought a way to involve officers with the local Special Olympics. That first run involved six officers and did not raise any money. Last year the Torch Run raised over $30 million for the Special Olympics programs. This year over 85,000 law enforcement officers will carry the “Flame of Hope” torch across 35 nations to raise funds and awareness for the games. |
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Saturday, May 19, 2012
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