Pasadena CA Police Join 1,100-Mile Torch Run Relay

Hooves clicked steadily against the pavement. Runners maintained a synchronized pace down the avenue. The bright morning air carried a deep sense of shared purpose. Officers moved forward together with clear determination through the neighborhood. They held a glowing symbol of global inclusion high above the road. This special moment brought the entire community together.

The Flame Moves Through Pasadena

The Pasadena Police Department took part in a historic regional tradition on June 3. Officers and professional staff ran alongside horses through the local city streets. They carried the torch for more than four miles during their designated relay leg. This local effort was part of the 40th annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Southern California.

The entire regional event lasted two weeks and covered a massive distance. The relay originally began on May 26 in Chula Vista. It stretched more than 1,100 miles across the southern part of the state. The journey concluded at Cal State Long Beach on June 5 for the Summer Games opening ceremony. More than 3,000 law enforcement officers participated in the regional undertaking.

Restored Units and Growing Support

Members of the department's Mounted Enforcement Unit made a prominent appearance during the run. The city manager's weekly newsletter highlighted their participation via an official press release. This specialized horse patrol was restored in late 2024. The unit returned to duty following a lengthy 19-year absence from the community. The torch relay marked one of the early public outings for the revived equestrian team.

Organizers reported that the Southern California program raised more than $1.26 million in 2025. The global movement has raised more than $1 billion since its creation in 1981. Wichita, Kansas, Police Chief Richard LaMunyon originally started the movement. The regional program serves nearly 25,000 athletes across 11 counties. The current boundaries reach more than 200 communities from San Luis Obispo to San Diego.

A Powerful Chain of Connection

Chief of Police Gene Harris said the torch run serves as the largest public awareness and fundraising movement benefiting Special Olympics. Harris noted that the event brings together officers and community members committed to inclusion, acceptance, and opportunity for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

“We could not do this without partnership,” said Kelly Pond, president and CEO of Special Olympics Southern California. Pond shared these words during a June 1 ceremony at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The remarks celebrated the arrival of the flame for the Los Angeles County leg. Pond noted that the day was a special moment to celebrate law enforcement partners.

The local relay connected multiple public safety agencies in a unified effort. The chain included the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. On June 4, more than 300 sheriff’s deputies carried the flame from the Hall of Justice. The countywide relay culminated at the Summer Games to light the official cauldron.

Championship Games and Athletic Milestones

Funds raised through the torch run support year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The programs are free to athletes and their families. The Summer Games took place from June 5 to June 7 at Cal State Long Beach. The athletic event featured competition in athletics, basketball, bocce, flag football, and swimming.

The Flame of Hope also traveled to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. That national competition occurred from June 20 to June 26 in Minnesota's Twin Cities. Nearly 3,000 athletes from all 50 states competed at the national level.

We can build a stronger community when we honor every individual. Our team feels deep admiration for the personnel who dedicate their lives to the safety of citizens. You can find inspiration by reading more stories like this one on our website. Please consider making a financial contribution to support our mission so we can continue highlighting the great work of local law enforcement personnel.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the history behind a law enforcement torch run?

The global movement began in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas, under the direction of a local police chief. It has since grown into a massive international fundraising effort. Law enforcement agencies nationwide now participate annually to support local special athletes.

 

2. How long does a law enforcement torch relay typically last?

A regional torch relay takes place over a dynamic two-week schedule across multiple counties. The route covers hundreds of miles as separate public safety agencies pass the flame from one community to the next. The journey officially concludes at the opening ceremonies.

3. Who qualifies to participate in these specialized sports training programs?

These charitable sports programs serve children and adults who have intellectual disabilities. The seasonal sports training and competitive events are provided completely free of charge to the athletes and their families. This ensures total inclusion and opportunity for everyone.

4. How do law enforcement agencies coordinate multi-city torch runs?

Dozens of municipal police departments and regional sheriff offices collaborate months in advance to plan specific routes. Each participating agency takes operational responsibility for a specific leg of the distance. This creates an unbroken chain of regional support.

5. What happens to a ceremonial flame after a regional opening ceremony?

The flame continues its symbolic journey to larger national and international competitive events. The torch travels across the country to light the official cauldrons at major sports games. This ongoing journey represents continuous hope and global athletic inclusion.

Sources:

• Story and Image Source: Pasadena Officers and Mounted Unit Carry Special Olympics Torch Through City Streets via City of Pasadena