Runners/walkers of all skill levels are invited to participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics starting at 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 11 in Midland. The event is not a race, but a leisurely run/walk to bring people together for the purpose of raising funds and awareness for the more than 19,000 Special Olympics athletes in Michigan.
“The Special Olympics athletes are the true winners of this event,” said Midland Police Department Deputy Chief Rodney Roten, who is coordinating the run. “They directly benefit from the participation, awareness, and donations that result from the event.”
The Torch Run will start at the Midland Law Enforcement Center (LEC), 2727 Rodd Street. This year, there will be two routes: a 3.4-mile route for runners and a 2.5-mile route for walkers, with the finish line for both being inside Dow Diamond. Walkers will leave the LEC at 5:15 p.m., and runners will leave at 5:30 p.m.
Registration for the run/walk is required, and participants who register with a $25 donation will receive a dri-fit shirt. Register online at http://www.firstgiving.com/somicivic/Midland14 or pick up a form at the LEC. Same-day registrations are available, and registrations will be taken any time prior to the start of the run/walk.
Six hot air balloon baskets located on Main Street in downtown Midland will present a tribute burn as participants approach and run or walk past the area. This will be in honor of the torch, the participants, and all Special Olympics athletes.
Last year the Midland event was the top community Torch Run in the state, raising $6,000. Deputy Chief Roten said he would love to increase the amount raised while keeping the top community Torch Run here in Midland.
Organizers expect 250 to 300 participants, including law enforcement officers, people from the Delta College Police Academy, Northwood University athletes and other students, Northeast and Jefferson Middle School football teams, Midland Public Schools cross-country teams, Special Olympics athletes, coaches, volunteers, parents, siblings, friends, and others.
For questions or further information on the Midland run, contact Deputy Chief Roten at 989-839-4703 or 989-600-0141.
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