Throughout North Carolina, a tradition of officers carrying a torch to help Special Olympics is coming to Sampson County.
The Newton Grove Police Department is sponsoring a North Carolina Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run. “Circle City 5K/1M” is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 12, in the Food Lion parking lot, 306 Main St., Newton Grove. During the event, participants have a chance to run for 3.1 miles for the 5K portion, walk, or ride a bike along the way.
Chief Greg Warren is preparing for the event along with other officers to help Special Olympics, which is the state’s largest sports organization for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in 1981 in Kansas and was organized by Wichita Police Chief Richard LaMunyon. Its purpose is to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics. The effort made its way to North Carolina with the first one being held in 1987.
“It’s all volunteers and 100 percent of the money is going towards Special Olympics,” Warren said to commissioners about officials leading the way. “If you would like to run, walk, ride a bike, or volunteer, I would live to have you out, maybe at a couple of water stations.”
The department supported Special Olympics for many years by raising money for the effort. So far, more than $4,000 was donated to the organization this year. For the upcoming run/walk, Warren is seeking sponsorship support from local businesses. More than $7oo have been donated to help with the October event.
Registration for the Oct. 12 event is scheduled for 7 a.m. followed by the 5K at 8 a.m. The 1 mile walk/bike starts at 8:15 a.m.
Pre-registration is available and will continue through Wednesday, Oct. 9. The fees for the 5K run is $30 and the 1 mile walk is $25. After Oct.9, a $5 late fee will be applied. Forms may be picked up at Newton Grove Town Hall, 304 Weeksdale St., Newton Grove and mailed to NGPD Law Enforcement Torch Run, P.O. Box 4, Newton Grove, NC 28366.
In-person registration is also available, if there’s enough space. It will be available from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, at the department next to town hall. During a race day, applicants may also apply at the registration tent next to Food Lion. Packets with T-shirts, may also be picked up Oct. 11 or at the registration tents, during those times. The event will be held rain or shine and refunds will not be given. For people with late registrations, T-shirts are not guaranteed.
For more information or to volunteer, contact Warren at 910-594-0829. Warren may also be reached through email at [email protected].