• When: 2018-05-11
  • QIC: Smokey & Thumbs Up
  • The PAX: Numerous Lexington, Lake Murray & Columbia PAX (12) along with some of SC FINEST Law Enforcement Personnel & Special Olympics Supporters (75)


SC Law Enforcement Special Olympics Torch Run (a Speed For Need Event)

Two Runs, two chances to serve!

The first run was a simple but powerful one mile mosey down Main Street in downtown Columbia, SC with the best escorts a runner could ask for, all kinds of SC Law Enforcement vehicles!  Cars, Trucks, & Bikes…OH MY!

Our Track Commander, Ms. Ashley was our leader.  Ashley is a special young woman, with an amazing outlook on life.  She said after the first run she couldn’t wait for the second run.  Many of the runners became official AUNTS & UNCLES to Ashley (her call).  Ashley is employed as a public speaker and marketing professional with Special Olympics South Carolina.  Many of the runners had the opportunity to carry the Special Olympics Torch as it made it’s way to Fort Jackson, SC.

The second run began later.  A seven mile run for the State Capital to the “Cauldron” at Fort Jackson.  This last run was the culmination of numerous law enforcement professionals and community members LONG runs from various parts of the State of South Carolina (P200 BACKWARDS basically) to deliver the torch to the opening ceremonies of the South Carolina State Special Olympics Weekend.  Our escort grew to include horse mounted officers.

This event was the inauguration Speed For Need Event for 2018 in South Carolina.  The ability to serve such a special Track Commander was very impactful for all who had the opportunity to attend.  The video does not fully show the happiness and excitement had by all who were involved.  When asked if she was ready to roll again with Speed For Need, Ashley said…BRING IT ON!

A small representation of the two events can be seen here: https://youtu.be/kxqxQzYd6N4

Humbly Submitted, YHC

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