The Flame of Hope, lit in the Deep South at Queens Park on Saturday, has begun its journey north to Hamilton for the New Zealand Special Olympics National Summer Games.
Coaches, families and a contingent of New Zealand Police ran alongside the Southland athletes, carrying the "Flame of Hope" from Feldwick Gates through to the Queens Park rotunda and back to begin the torch’s journey north and kick off the nationwide Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) which marked the countdown to the National Summer Games.
Special Olympics chief executive Carolyn Young was excited about the event being held from December 8 to 12 and hoped the people of Southland would show their support for the athletes.
"Our clubs have been building up to our pinnacle event for five years, and the LETR is a wonderful way to raise awareness around the country and to get everyone excited about the National Summer Games," Ms Young said.
The flame symbolised courage, celebrated diversity, and united communities around the globe with more than 97,000 law enforcement members carrying the Flame of Hope at annual events.
Southern area police commander Inspector Mike Bowman said it was pleasing to be a part of the Olympics, which the police had been involved with since 2009.
"We are really proud to be part of it because it [is] such a great cause."
"It’s about competing, enjoying yourselves and making lots of new friends."
LETR New Zealand Charitable Trust chairman and New Zealand LETR director Inspector Mark Harrison said the torch run epitomised what policing was about — "being an active part of the community and supporting positive community initiatives".
Runners and walkers were met by Invercargill Mayor Tim Shadbolt and Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds at a reception where Special Olympics athletes and LETR runners spoke about the Torch Run and Special Olympics.
Sir Tim said he enjoyed attending events that embraced positivity and inspiration.
" ... I feel proud to have the torch begin its journey in our city of Invercargill."
Ms Simmonds said she was looking forward to being at the Special Olympics opening in Hamilton where the team would be proudly wearing their Southland uniform.
"And if they let me out of Parliament I might even be there for the finish as well."
By: Toni McDonald
