Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) volunteers, representing officers from across West Texas gathered in front of the Odessa Police Department to kick off the Law Enforcement Torch Run West Texas Leg on April 30. The run is Special Olympics’ largest grassroots fund-raiser and public awareness vehicle. The Odessa Police Department is proud to have represented this organization over the past 25 years and to continue being a part of this great cause. Law enforcement officers ran from Third Street and Golder Avenue to the Odessa Police Department at approximately 9:30 a.m. A brief program was held the program and OPD officers led the torch runners south on Grant Avenue to Murphy Street carrying the ceremonial torch to kick off the West Texas Leg. In Texas, the Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1985. At its most basic level, the Torch Run is a running event where officers and athletes run the Special Olympics “Flame of Hope” to the opening ceremonies of competitions being held this year in Arlington. The Torch Run program also encompasses a variety of fundraising vehicles such as merchandise sales, donations or pledges for runners, corporate donations, and special events. In 2018, Texas Torch Runners across the state raised approximately $3 million dollars for The Special Olympic Program.
