THUNDER BAY - The Special Olympic flame is an inspiration to all athletes and being able to participate in its journey across Ontario alongside law enforcement members each year has created a long and everlasting bond.
“It’s just nice to be involved. They are a great community,” said Keith Nutley, a conservation officer with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. “A lot of the officers know them by first name. It’s a nice connection between law enforcement and the Special Olympics community.”
The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run in support of Special Olympics Ontario made its way to Thunder Bay on Sunday. Events are being held across the province and this year more than $5,500 was raised in support of Special Olympics Ontario.
“This run is very important,” said Denita Minoletti, treasurer and event coordinator for local chapter of Special Olympics. “The fundraising helps us greatly with our travel, with being able to run our local sports. We have a really great bond with the law enforcement torch run group from all types of law enforcement.”
Minoletti said having law enforcement officials involved in the Special Olympics has always been really important for the athletes, who look up to the officers.
“Our athletes look forward to this run every year,” she said. “They look forward to a bigger bond with them. This is wonderful. It is not only awareness for us, but it also helps us raise money to be able to run local sports and send our athletes off to competition outside of Thunder Bay.”
“Our athletes look up to all law enforcement, so it’s really great for us to have that bond with them. To be out here, socialize, have fun, enjoy each other’s company and know we have a wonderful organization and there is nothing like the power of sport.”
Nutley has been participating in the annual Torch Run for the past eight years, as well as other fundraisers for Special Olympics. He said it is always great to see the athletes come out every year who are always smiling, both on and off the field.
“It’s fantastic,” he said. “I’m fortune enough to coach them as well. It’s a great event to be involved. We are very privileged to be involved in.”
