Maine Law Enforcement Torch Run

Special Olympics athletes are spokespersons for freedom itself – they ask for the freedom to live, the freedom to belong, the freedom to contribute, the freedom to have a chance. And, of all the values that unite and inspire us to seek a better world, no value holds a higher place than the value of freedom.”

                                                                                      -Eunice Kennedy Shriver


For over 25 years Ogunquit Police department has participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. Ogunquit Police department has not only participated, but lead the way.....

                                  Ogunquit Police Officers 1985 First Torch Run, tube socks and short shorts!
                                                         (photo courtesy of retired OPD officer Bob Jones)


Year after year, residents, business owners and others have generously donated to this outstanding cause. Ogunquit has the distinction  of being a small town with the biggest donations.

I ran my first "Torch Run" in 2002. In 2003 I met and was inspired by Lisa Bird, director of Development for Maine Special Olympics. Through out the years Lisa has inspired and motivated me,  and many law enforcement agencies in the state Maine. Each year nearly 700 members of Maine law enforcement run  approximately 900 miles through the state carrying our Flame of Hope.

Because Ogunquit is a small town, with a small police force, we always invite the community to run with us.

The course in Ogunquit may be short, but support is quite large! To donate to the Maine Special Olympics:

Maine Special Olympics

C/O Ogunquit Police Dept

Officer Greg Testa

POB 666

Ogunquit, ME 03907