Lethbridge Special Olympics and Law Enforcement Torch Run were raising money for Special Olympic athletes over the weekend, August 26, 2022 (Photo: LNN)

By Drew Stremick

Law Enforcement Torch Run raises funds for Alberta Special Olympics

Aug 29, 2022 | 8:41 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics Lethbridge worked together over the weekend to raise funds for Special Olympic athletes in Alberta.

The overall goal for the global fundraiser is to collect $1-billion dollars for Special Olympic athletes.

Anny Chenard is the chair of Special Olympics Lethbridge, and she says this fundraiser is vital for athletes to be able to continue to have access to sports across the province.

“The fundraising part of it is a huge factor for Special Olympics because a lot of our athletes, some of them only get specialized funding through the government,” Chenard said. “So with this, it’s just an extra cost. Some of them who can’t afford sports, sometimes we’re able to get them to play the sports that they want to play. But this also helps for uniform costs and for travels, and for any competitions that we might have to send athletes to.”

Since its inception in 1987, the Law Enforcement Torch Run has raised over $72-million for Special Olympic athletes across Canada.

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: November 12-17, 2024

Nov 12, 2024

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: November 4-10, 2024

Nov 04, 2024

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: October 28-November 3, 2024

Oct 28, 2024

Volunteers and athletes were all smiles as they raised money for Special Olympic athletes in Lethbridge over the weekend, August 26, 2022 (Photo: LNN)

Recently, athletes have been competing in a number of events, including the Canada Summer Games in Niagara, Ontario, and a qualifier tournament for Bocce to see who would represent Alberta in Germany in 2023.

Wendy Nelson is the head coach for the swimming team, and she is proud of how the athletes performed in Niagara.

“The greatest thing is seeing these athletes achieve their best and being able to participate in anything and go as far as they want,” Nelson said. “We’re certified coaches, and I can coach in able-bodied or in special. But come out, volunteer, and help at the programs, and just see how great these athletes really are.”

For anyone interested in learning more about Special Olympics Lethbridge, you can find more information on the Special Olympic Alberta Website.

Read more Lethbridge News Now.