2023 LETR Torch Run: Running for a good cause

By Editor | May 31, 2023 |

Photo by Christy Porter
And they’re off…. Participants in the 2023 Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics Missouri began the last lap of their run/walk, in Licking, on Friday morning.

By Christy Porter, Managing Editor

The 14th Annual 2023 Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Missouri (LETR) was held on Friday. The LETR began in Cabool, continued in Houston and was completed in Licking at the Licking Rodeo Grounds via Hartville Road. Licking K9 Officer Kaleb Berkshire escorted South Central Correctional Center (SCCC) staff and additional local representation through Licking.

Kat Mendenhall was the Guardian of the Flame to begin the run/walk, and Derrick James, the Guardian of the Flame, for the completion.

“We had more SCCC participants this year than the recent past,” said SCCC Coordinator Misty Perkins. “Unfortunately, there were not more children present due to the school term having ended.”

Torch run t-shirts are sold at SCCC to raise funds for Special Olympics and to allow a show of support for the annual event.

“Our mission is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.” – Special Olympics Missouri

Perkins expressed her gratitude, “Thank you to law enforcement participants, runners, and all involved with this year’s Torch Run. Your participation is greatly appreciated!”