New Canaan Police on Friday participated in a fundraising run for the Special Olympics.
NCPD received the “Flame of Hope” from Stamford Police early on a sunny, hot morning at the “Pop Up Park” at South Avenue between Elm Street and Morse Court.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run “is an incredible event that brings law enforcement together and connects them with the Special Olympics community,” Officer Kelly Coughlin said in an interview before NCPD’s leg of the run started.
Launched in 1981, the “run” now sees more than 100,000 law enforcement officers, known to the event as “Guardians of the Flame,” participate. The “Flame of Hope” symbolizes courage and celebration of diversity, according to the Special Olympics website. The run has raised more than $600 million for Special Olympics programs.
New Canaan Police Receiving the “Flame of Hope.” Credit: Donovan West
“It’s a great bond-building experience between not only the officers but also other people in the community and across the state,” Coughlin, NCPD’s organizer of the local portion of the event, said.
Connecticut’s rendition of the event covered three days, from June 4 to 6, with more than 2,000 runners from more than 140 law enforcement agencies. The participants covered more than 500 miles over the three days.
When asked by NewCanaanite.com why she feels such a strong connection to the event, Coughlin said that she thinks “everyone deserves representation in all assets of life.”
She continued: “As an athlete, I’ve had so many amazing opportunities to play and participate in sports. So, it’s really important to me that all people of all abilities are given the same chances to do the things they love.”
NCPD preparing to begin the run. Credit: Donovan West
New Canaan’s leg of the Torch Run started at the “Pop Up Park” and covered 2.5 miles before officers handed off the torch to the Darien Police Department.
NCPD was a part of the last leg of Connecticut’s Torch Run. The final handoff was scheduled for West Haven at approximately 6 p.m. Friday.
Coughlin said those involved forge a strong bond.
“It’s amazing because we all feel a sort of connectedness,” she said. “We all feel the inclusivity and common bond that sports provide.”
The NCPD had at least 15 officers participate, along with one Special Olympics athlete, in an event that Coughlin “hopes will continue,” she said.