Reaching new heights for Special Olympics
Posted Nov 3, 2011 12:33 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
More than 1,000 law enforcement officers have come to Calgary to benefit Special Olympics.
They’ve descended on ‘Cowtown’ for the 30th Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run Conference to share stories of hope and determination.
It’s the first time the event has been held outside of the United States and on Canadian soil.
The committee in Calgary has been bidding for the event for several years.
Conference Chair and Calgary Police Detective Theresa Garagan tells reporters her personal journey with the run has meant a lot.
“I coach Special Olympics so for me to have all of these athletes involved and just to see these athletes thank us,” she says. “You know what, we thank them because they make our lives a lot more positive.”
Law Enforcement Torch Run Founder and former Wichita, Kansas Police Chief Richard LaMunyon says it’s astonishing to see how fast the movement has grown.
He says he’s thrilled to see the conference in Canada and adds it’s hard to believe it’s been 30 years.
“It just shows how genuine the program is, I’m humbled to be a part of it and it is something that continues to grow,” says LaMunyon.
Special Olympian, gold medallist and Calgary native Katie Saunders moved the crowd during the opening ceremonies with her own story of inspiration and glory.
“It’s amazing just to see all the officers from around the world come together, it’s like a big family,” says Saunders.
Events continue throughout the weekend in the city, including a 5km run from Olympic Plaza.
