The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run officially began in Oklahoma on Wednesday morning as police officers and federal agents joined together to support Special Olympics Oklahoma.
The event, which has become a major tradition across the state, helps raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics athletes ahead of the Summer Games in Stillwater.
Officers from multiple agencies gathered near Charles Page Boulevard in Tulsa before starting the first leg of the relay while carrying the symbolic “Flame of Hope.”
Law Enforcement Agencies Join Together for Torch Run
Several agencies participated in the opening run, including:
- Tulsa Police Department
- United States Marshals Service
- Broken Arrow Police Department
The relay is part of a statewide effort where officers carry the torch through different communities until it reaches Stillwater for the Summer Games.
Officer Josh Metcalf explained the importance of the event and what the torch represents for athletes across Oklahoma.
“This is basically law enforcement carrying the Flame of Hope to make sure that flame on the torch never goes out.”
Tulsa Leg Covered More Than Five Miles
According to Metcalf, Tulsa officers ran around 5.5 miles before passing the torch to the Sand Springs Police Department.
The relay includes:
| Torch Run Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Starting location | Tulsa |
| Final destination | Stillwater |
| Tulsa distance covered | Around 5.5 miles |
| Agencies participating | 15 to 20 |
| Number of relay legs | Seven |
The torch will continue traveling through multiple Oklahoma communities before arriving at the Special Olympics Summer Games.
Special Olympics Athletes Excited for Summer Games
Special Olympics athlete Jordan joined participants before the run began and shared excitement about competing in upcoming track events.
“I’ve been ready since day one. I’m ready for my track events.”
The torch run is not only a fundraiser but also a motivational event that brings athletes, officers and local communities together.
News On 6 Anchor Participates in the Event
News On 6 anchor Reagan Ledbetter participated in the torch run for the first time this year.
Ledbetter said he has always supported Special Olympics because of his school’s involvement during his childhood. He described the experience as meaningful and inspiring.
“To be out here supporting the athletes and the people raising all this money for Special Olympics is really cool.”
Torch Run Tradition Started in 1986
The Law Enforcement Torch Run first started in Oklahoma in 1986 as a grassroots fundraising effort for Special Olympics Oklahoma.
Since then, the event has:
- Raised more than $10 million
- Expanded across the state
- Involved dozens of law enforcement agencies yearly
- Become one of Oklahoma’s longest-running Special Olympics traditions
Participants also spoke about another inspiring tradition linked to the event — a man who has reportedly walked from Chickasha to Stillwater every year for 26 years to support the games.
Community Support Continues to Grow
The Oklahoma Law Enforcement Torch Run continues to bring together athletes, police officers and supporters from across the state. Beyond fundraising, the event represents unity, encouragement and respect for Special Olympics athletes who work hard throughout the year to compete.
As the Flame of Hope travels toward Stillwater, it carries a powerful message of inclusion and community spirit. Events like this show how sports and public service can come together to create a positive impact for thousands of athletes and families across Oklahoma.
