Numerous law enforcement agencies participated in a torch run on Sunday for Special Olympics Illinois, where police departments pass on the “Flame of Hope” until it reaches its destination in central Illinois.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run raises money and spreads awareness for athletes who participate in Special Olympics Illinois.
According to Special Olympics Illinois, approximately 3,000 law enforcement officers participate in a relay carrying the “Flame of Hope” nearly 1,500 miles through 23 different legs, or routes.
One leg started in Antioch and ended in Wauconda and the other leg started in Winthrop Harbor and ended in Evanston, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said.
The Antioch Police Department started its run around 6 a.m. Sunday at Main Street and Orchard Street.
The torch was handed off to the Lake Villa Police Department at Route 83 and Beach Grove Road.
The sheriff’s office passed its torch to the Waukegan Police Department at Sheridan Road and Blanchard Road in Beach Park.
Waukegan police officers carried the torch south for 4.1 miles and passed it to the North Chicago Police Department at Sheridan Road and 10th Street.
The Round Lake Police Department also participated and passed the torch on to the next segment.
The relay ends at the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games in the town of Normal in central Illinois.
The torch run is the single largest year-round fundraising movement that benefits Special Olympics Illinois, the organization said.