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Ventura, Calif. — Ventura Police officers and staff will participate in the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run on Thursday, June 8, from 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
The non-competitive, segmented run will start at the steps of the Ventura City Hall located at 501 Poli Street. Runners will carry the Special Olympics’ Torch, also known as the “Flame of Hope,” through the streets of Ventura, passing it off to the Oxnard Police Department to continue the run throughout Ventura County.
“The Flame of Hope symbolizes a celebration of diversity and the spirit of Special Olympics athletes who remain committed to putting in the work to compete and represent their communities,” said Sergeant Ryan Reynosa, Special Olympics Liaison with the Ventura Police Department. “I am so thankful to be part of Team Ventura PD, working together to raise funds and increase awareness and acceptance for these incredible athletes locally.”
Route Information:
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7:30 a.m. - Runners meet on the steps of the Ventura City Hall.
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8:00 a.m. - Runners depart City Hall, head east on Poli Street, south on Chestnut Street, and east on Thompson Street to Main Street.
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8:30 a.m. - Runners arrive at the Pacific View Mall and continue east on Main Street to Telephone Road and south on Portola Road.
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8:50 a.m. - Runners arrive at the Ventura Police Department for a short break.
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9:00 a.m. - Runners continue east on Ralston Street and south on Johnson Drive.
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9:20 a.m. - At US 101, runners will take the foot bridge over the Santa Clara River and hand off the “Flame of Hope” to the Oxnard Police Department.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run will impact the flow of traffic. Residents are urged to review route information and use alternative streets for their morning commute.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest awareness and grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics. In Southern California, it consists of nine different legs, spanning from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. Legs are completed in conjunction with Special Olympics athletes and various members of law enforcement agencies from throughout the region, culminating with the Special Olympics California Summer Games hosted in Long Beach on June 13-14, 2023.
Community members interested in supporting the cause can come cheer on participants as the “Flame of Hope” makes its way through Ventura or can support financially by making a donation to “Team Ventura PD” at www.CityofVentura.ca.gov/LETR.
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