Hollister
– A small parade of California Highway Patrol officers were
joined by a Special Olympian as they jogged down the streets of
Hollister Monday, carrying with them the symbolic Olympic
torch.
Hollister – A small parade of California Highway Patrol officers were joined by a Special Olympian as they jogged down the streets of Hollister Monday, carrying with them the symbolic Olympic torch.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run benefiting the Special Olympics made its way through Hollister, as well as Gilroy and Morgan Hill. The run raised awareness for the summer Special Olympics of Northern California, which will begin June 8 in Berkeley.
The Hollister-Gilroy Area Office of the CHP organized the event, showing its support for the athletes and the program.
“We want to do anything we can as the CHP to support events like this, and show the communities’ support,” Public Information Officer Chris Armstrong said.
The CHP officers were joined by Special Olympian Donnie Cross, who is running track and field for the summer games. The group ran from Target to downtown Hollister.
Andrea Schofield, development manager for the Special Olympics, said the event, which mimics the Olympics opening ceremony, is a good opportunity for communities to raise money for the event. In the past, the Hollister-Gilroy Area CHP had raised around $5,000 for the games, Schofield said. They raised $1,710 recently through the “Tip-a-Cop” fundraiser at Chili’s restaurant in Gilroy.
Besides raising money, CHP officers said running with the torch gave them a sense of solidarity with the Olympians.
“There’s a real sense of pride to be able to assist these athletes. People are driving by and honking their horns and waving – to be a part of that is definitely special for all of the officers,” Armstrong said.
For more information on the Special Olympic games, go to www.sonc.org.
