Richland County law enforcement personnel showed their support of the Special Olympics by participating in the 27th annual Torch Run this morning. The run kicked off around 8:30 a.m. at the Kroger on Lexington Avenue, sponsor of this event for the past eight years.
About twelve people participated, including law enforcement officials from various Richland County agencies, family members, Special Olympics staff, along with Special Olympics athlete, Daniel Barnett.
The course stretched approximately eight-and-one-half miles from the Kroger Marketplace on Lexington Avenue to the Bellville bandstand on Main St. Some participants chose to run the whole way, while others ran part of the course.
Each participating law enforcement official pledged to raise at least $25 for the Special Olympics fund. In addition to their pledged donations, some participants were sponsored by service groups, schools, and businesses that helped raise funds.
Jon Van Houten and John Yeichner of the Lexington Police Department received a $100 sponsorship from State Farm Insurance Agent Scott Sharrock.
Van Houten, a seven-year participant, said, “It’s a great cause and I’ve enjoyed doing it.” He then laughed and stated, “Plus, you get a tee shirt.”
Van Houten also brought his daughter, Addy Van Houten, to run with him. She is a soon-to-be fifth grader at Malabar School, and this will be her third year running in the Torch Run.
Mike Bennett, a retired Chief of Police for the Shelby Police Department and currently a Special Deputy for Richland County’s Sheriff Department, also participated in the Torch Run.
Bennett has been involved in this event for over 20 years as a fundraiser and runner. Since the Torch Run was first hosted in Richland County, Bennett only missed one year for his daughter’s wedding.
He stated, “This is an opportunity to support those with special needs and to help give them a chance to participate in the Special Olympics. Anytime we can help out we want to help.”
