Torch Run for Nebraska Special Olympics travels through Beatrice

BEATRICE – Beatrice-area Special Olympics athletes accompanied Beatrice Police and Fire on the annual Torch Run for Special Olympics in the downtown area Tuesday evening.

The Nebraska Special Olympics kick off in Omaha this Wednesday. Police officers ran from 19th and Court to 8th and Court, where they were joined up by Special Olympics participants running the remainder of the route for activities on Fifth Street.

"As a Beatrice Police Department, we want to thank everyone who showed up here tonight. All the Olympic runners did a great job...let's give them a hand."

Beatrice Police Director Jay Murphy credited the local support that helps put on the annual torch run.  "We want to thank Back Alley Eatery....so when we're all done, we can get some food. We also want to thank Family Fare, Family Dollar and the American Legion Riders."

Participants worn olive and black shirts with the words, Guardians of the Flame…..as the torch run traveled west to the downtown area.

The Nebraska Special Olympics Summer games will feature volleyball, swimming, gymnastics and track and field, May 15th through the 18th…. With several local athletes planning to participate. There are individual and team sporting events offering competition for persons with intellectual disabilities. The games are held to help break down stereotypes and promote more inclusive communities.

Medals were handed out to the local Beatrice-area Special Olympics participants following Tuesday night’s law enforcement torch run.