ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Local law enforcement agencies from across Tampa Bay are coming together in the month of April to take part in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.
Law enforcement officers from more than 300 Florida agencies lace up their shoes for the state-wide torch run. Closer to home across Tampa Bay, members from the Sarasota Police Department, Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, Pinellas County Sheriff's Office and Pasco County Sheriff's Office are taking to the streets.
Each year in the Sunshine State, the Flame of Hope is carried on a 1,500-mile rally through 67 counties. More than 5,000 officers take part in this run that started in March.
And residents should expect road closures as the torch is being hauled through the streets.
On Wednesday, Pinellas County deputies will go along a four miles route starting from Philippe Parkway to Enterprise Road, west on Enterprise Road to McMullen Booth Road, then south on McMullen Booth Road to Sunset Point Road, then west on Sunset Point Road to Paul B. Stephens School before wrapping it up.
During the run, traffic may be affected for a brief period of time while officers block roadways and stop traffic at different intersections.
According to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, the Torch Run brings attention to the many sports programs available to the intellectually disabled.
"Being with these athletes you know, everything that goes on in this world, the stress, anxiety, but you come out with these athletes and it's such a great day to be out here," Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco said. "They're always so positive, always so full of energy, and it brings great warmth to your heart."
The intra-state torch run is always a way to raise money to support the Special Olympics as members of law enforcement raise money from individual and company donations along the way.