Community Corner

Special Olympics Torch Run [Video]

The Connecticut Special Olympics Kicked Off Their Weekend Events By Holding A Torch Run Through The Shoreline

It was quite a sight to see runners from all walks of life and all ages running down Main Street in Clinton - with one runner holding the Olympic torch.

It was the kick-off event for this weekend's Connecticut Special Olympics held this year at Southern Connecticut State University.

"I held the torch," said a proud Ron Duffney.

Find out what's happening in Clintonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The torch, called the "Flame of Hope" was part of the run that consisted of local law enforcement, Special Olympics Connecticut athletes and volunteers. 

At 7:48am this morning, they began the run in Chester. They will run through the towns of Deep River, Essex, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, Clinton, Madison, Guilford, Branford and East Haven before arriving at their final destination, New Haven, at 5pm this evening.

Find out what's happening in Clintonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

They stopped in Clinton at the police station for a break, lots of water and a light lunch.

Sally Hawley, who just found out she has been designated as a lifetime coach for the Special Olympics, explained that the opening ceremonies will be held this afternoon and tonight (June 10) with events and competitions happening all weekend long.

"There are thousands of participants and volunteers," said Hawley, who has been a volunteer, coach and global messenger for the Special Olympics for more than 10 years.

The events this weekend will include most warm-weather sports such as tennis, swimming, track and field, and soccer, among others.

In the fall, they hold events for bowling, volleyball and basketball and in the winter, they have skating, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snow-shoeing, explained Hawley.

Please give a big congratulations to these fine athletics, their coaches, contributors and all the volunteers who make these events possible.


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