Police and Special Olympics athletes are poised for a run through central Hamilton tomorrow as part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) supporting the Special Olympics Trans-Tasman Tournament being held from 25 to 27 November in the city.
A large contingent of New Zealand Police, supported by members of the police forces from New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland, Victoria, Western Australia and the Federal Police, will run alongside Special Olympics athletes. They will carry the “Flame of Hope” through the main street of Hamilton, starting from the Hamilton Central police station at 12.20pm along Victoria Street to Garden Park. On arrival the runners will be met by Hamilton Mayor, Andrew King and a reception held where Special Olympics athletes and LETR runners will speak about the Torch Run and Special Olympics.
The flame symbolises courage, celebrates diversity, and unites communities around the globe with over 97,000 law enforcement members carrying the “Flame of Hope” at events annually.
Inspector Mark Harrison, chair of the LETR New Zealand Charitable Trust and New Zealand LETR director, says LETR epitomises what policing is about – being an active part of the community and supporting positive community initiatives.
"Commissioner Mike Bush is our Patron and its fantastic to have his continued support,” says Mark.
“It would be great to have the community cheer us on tomorrow.”
At the conclusion of the event the run will depart Garden Square back to the Police Station.
Media are invited to attend the Torch Run and photographers are welcome. Special Olympics New Zealand will also be photographing the event and is happy to supply images to media as requested.
For more information:
Inspector Mark Harrison
New Zealand Police - 021 190 7805
Angela Day
Manager – Marketing and Communications
Special Olympics New Zealand
027 297 7006
angelad@specialolympics.org.nz
To find out more about the Trans-Tasman Tournament and view the full list of competing athletes visit www.specialolympics.org.nz/transtasman
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