Putting chills up your spine and making those hairs stand up on the back of your neck, our local athletes and law enforcement officers displayed an impressive show Saturday, May 16th at this year’s Special Olympic Law Enforcement Torch Run. The run was designed to raise funds to help our local Special Olympic athletes reach their competition goals. Tina Strayhorn, a local Special Olympic Representative and bowling coach explained that 13 communities from around the state participate in the annual national event, holding Torch Run’s in their respective locations.

With over 25 athletes and their families, as well as other members of our community participating, the run brought a very successful $8,744.00 including proceeds from the quilt raffle, to be put towards 50 local athletes and their equipment, uniforms and travel needs at the state competition held in Anchorage on June 5-7th in swimming and basketball. “Troopers, local Police Departments, local Fire Departments and several other agencies participated in this year’s successful fundraiser,” said Carry Yarns, Torch Run Coordinator, Alaska State Troopers. “We want to thank everyone for their support,” said Strayhorn, “Please join us at the Family Fun in the Midnight Sun on June 20th where Special Olympics will have the dunking booth with proceeds also going to support our local atheletes.”