The San Fernando Police Department resumed its participation in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics of Southern California on Wednesday, Nov. 3. It was the 35th year of the event, which was canceled in 2020 because of COVID-19 restrictions.
The team of police and City personnel began their run at 9 a.m., carrying the “Flame of Hope” Torch along a 2.5 mile route through city streets, beginning at O’Melveny Elementary School on Chatsworth Drive, and ending at the City’s police station.
“We are truly honored to be a part of carrying this torch again,” San Fernando Police Chief Tony Vario said. “Our City family is always excited about showing our support for the champions of Special Olympics who do not know the words ‘I can’t’ and who overcome challenges everyday as persons with intellectual disabilities.
“We embrace diversity in our community and the diversity of these outstanding athletes.”
The “Flame of Hope” symbolizes courage and the celebration of diversity while representing inclusion, respect and the spirit of the Special Olympics.
The police team was led by Sgt. Walter Dominguez.
“We are so excited to again be a part of this run,” Dominguez said. “COVID-19 restrictions prevented this run last year and we hope to again see hundreds of people line the streets which inspires us to be a part of this great cause.”
For more information on the run or to donate to the running team, you may visit the Special Olympics Santa Clarita & Tri-Valley website at http://fundraising.sosc.org/goto/sanfernandopd_.