"Flame of Hope" burns bright in Findlay

FINDLAY — Blanchard Valley Center hosted the 45th annual Torch Run for the Special Olympics Wednesday. Officers from the Hancock County Sheriff's Office and the Findlay Police Department carried the torch through the streets in Findlay, kicking off the Ohio Special Olympics Summer Games in Columbus. The route began at The University of Findlay. From the University arch, officers made their way to the Hancock County Courthouse to meet up with the Special Olympics athletes and runners from Blanchard Valley Center. From that point, the runners made their final stretch to St. Mark's United Methodist Church. According to the Special Olympics website, since its inception in 1981, the Law Enforcement Torch Run has raised more than $500 million for the Special Olympics. Law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes, also known as the Guardians of the Flame, have carried the "Flame of Hope" symbolizing courage, inclusion and perseverance all across the globe. The annual torch run has been a Hancock County tradition since 1981. The Ohio Special Olympics will be held on June 13-15 at Ohio State University. Hancock County is sending 33 athletes to Columbus, competing in bocce ball, powerlifting and track and field. More than 3,400 athletes, unified partners and coaches will be participating in this year's summer games in Ohio.