South Burlington carries the Flame of Hope for Special

On Saturday, June 6, 2026, Special Olympics Vermont held its Summer Games at Saint Michael’s College, where over 250 athletes competed in basketball and bocce from 12 delegations. The week leading up to the Summer Games, more than 500 law enforcement officers across Vermont participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run, heralding the Special Olympics “Flame of Hope” over 100 miles toward the Summer Games Opening Ceremony to light the cauldron and declare, “Let the Games Begin!”

The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest grassroots fundraising initiative and awareness vehicle for Special Olympics, though some other well-known actions include Tip-A-Cops, Truck Pulls, and the Polar Plunges.

Special Olympics Vermont offers year-round competitions to over 2,000 athletes statewide in 13 Olympic-type sports. Besides sport competitions, athletes also receive free health screenings at competitions. Special Olympics Vermont has several other programs to include Young Athletes and Unified Champion Schools, which work to break down barriers between individuals with intellectual disabilities and their typical-learning peers.

South Burlington’s participation and commitment to the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics not only demonstrates incredible dedication but shines a powerful light on acceptance, respect, and the celebration of abilities for athletes in the communities we protect and serve. And while it is called the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, we would be remiss not to mention the other first responders (Fire & Rescue), correctional officers, and military partners who join to champion inclusion.

THANK YOU to all the participants of the running portion, which included Special Olympics athlete Patrick Richardson, officers and firefighters from South Burlington, officers and rescue personnel from UVM Police Services, and the South Burlington Middle and High School for the reception and celebration of their Unified Basketball and Bocce teams!

Another special thank you to South Burlington businesses High Hat BJJ, Heritage Automotive Group, Goss Cars, and the Redducs Foundation for your partnerships.

Source: City of South Burlington