Kansas is the only state that can proclaim:

First to Carry the Torch and Still Lighting the Way!

The Law Enforcement Torch Run® began here in Kansas in 1981 when Wichita Police Chief Richard LaMunyon saw a need to raise funds for and awareness of Special Olympics Kansas. Chief LaMunyon felt that Special Olympics was a fitting cause to unite local law enforcement agencies, giving them closer ties to the community at large and to a very special population.

In 1984, after three years of successful Torch Runs in Kansas, Chief LaMunyon presented his highly successful Torch Run program to the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), whose enthusiastic support enabled the Torch Run to expand into a national event. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2006, the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics is the movement's largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle.

Each year, the odds are overwhelming. Across the United States, law enforcement officers carry the Special Olympics Torch on inter-state relays, running for a common cause to bring the Torch to the Opening Ceremonies of their state's Summer Special Olympics Games.

100% of funds raised directly benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Kansas.


Kansas 2010 LETR Goals

What Is Special Olympics?

An international year-round program of sports training, education and athletic competition for more than one million children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Special Olympics www.specialolympics.org

Began in 1968 when Eunice Kennedy Shriver organized the First International Special Olympics Games at Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois, USA. Since 1968, millions of children and adults with intellectual disabilities have participated in Special Olympics.

Special Olympics Kansas (SOKS) www.ksso.org

Began in 1970, growing to include more than 100 local programs and teams across the state. Today, SOKS touches the lives of 5,580 athletes who train and compete year-round in 22 sports, including Unified Sports®. Through our organization, the athletes improve physical fitness, acquire new skills, develop lifelong friendships and encourage widespread community understanding and acceptance.