For almost 20 years, police and citizens have run for a great cause in memory of a special officer. York Regional Police is proud to host the annual Race for Plunkett in support of Special Olympics Ontario. Det, Const. Rob Plunkett, who was killed in the line of duty in August 2007, served as chairperson of the 2000 Special Olympics Spring Games in York Region. The Law Enforcement Torch Run race, which will take place on August 5 at 6 p.m. York Regional Police has supported the Law Enforcement Torch Run for more than 35 years. Participants in the Race for Plunkett honour his memory and commitment to Special Olympics. A short ceremony will begin on the Riverwalk Commons stage before the Law Enforcement Flame of Hope is carried in by Special Olympics athletes. All participants will then be deemed Guardians of the Flame as the torch is carried 500 metres to the starting line in Fairy Lake Park. Participants can register online for a five or 10 kilometre run or a five kilometre walk along the Tom Taylor Trail in Newmarket. Everyone is asked to arrive at the Riverwalk Commons between 5 to 5:30 p.m. to pick up their Torch Run t-shirt, race kit and electronic timing chip. Attendees will have a chance to meet with local Special Olympics athletes, visit police displays, enjoy music and take commemorative pictures. Law Enforcement Torch Run events raise funds and awareness for the Special Olympics movement. Officers from more than 30 countries carry the Flame of Hope in honour of Special Olympics athletes worldwide. The Torch Run is the largest fundraiser for Special Olympics in the world.
