NY Special Olympics torch run passes through Capital Region

CAPITAL REGION, N.Y. ( NEWS10 ) — The Flame of Hope made its way around New York in support of the state’s Special Olympics Games. The Law Enforcement Torch Run passed through Albany, Schenectady and Rensselaer Counties on Thursday.

The run is a 30-year Special Olympics tradition and raises money and awareness for the competition that more than 1,500 athletes across the state participate in. Organizers of the Games said the continued support from law enforcement means a lot.

“The bigger issue is inclusion, so by being partners with law enforcement, there is more inclusion in the community,” Special Olympics New York Pres. Stacey Hengsterman said. “Law enforcement gets to know our athletes, and they get to know them, and they get a great friendship.”

New York’s Summer Special Olympics kicks off on Friday in Ithaca and will feature eight different sport competitions.

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