INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Local police officers will carry the flame for athletes with intellectual disabilities next month as the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Florida returns to Indian River County.
The event will be on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 9:00 am, starting at Chili’s, 940 US Highway 1 in Indian River County; participants should arrive by 8:30 am.
Officers from the Indian River County Sheriff’s Department, Vero Beach Police Department, Sebastian Police Department, Fellsmere Police Department and Indian River Shores Public Safety Department will take part.
Anyone who wants to join the run must buy a Law Enforcement Torch Run shirt for $25 on the day of the event. All money raised supports Special Olympics Florida and its programs for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run is one of the largest grassroots fundraisers for Special Olympics. Officers run or walk with the Special Olympics torch through communities to raise awareness and money.
This year’s run in Indian River County gives residents a chance to cheer on the officers and show support for local Special Olympics athletes.
Special Olympics
Special Olympics gives children and adults with intellectual disabilities free year-round sports training and competitions. It helps athletes build skills, make friends, and feel included. It also teaches communities about acceptance and inclusion.
Athletes compete in more than 30 Olympic-style sports, including swimming, basketball, soccer and track. They build fitness, show courage and feel joy while making friends.
The group also offers health checks, leadership training and programs that bring people with and without disabilities together on the same teams.
In Florida, Special Olympics Florida runs local programs across the state, including in Indian River County. All programs are free for athletes and their families.
For more information about the event or Special Olympics Florida, visit the Special Olympics Florida website or contact one of the participating police departments.
