Stay informed with the LNN Daily Newsletter
Virtual Summer Series Logo -- Photo Credit to LPS

Police and Special Olympics Alberta team up for Virtual Summer Series

Jun 13, 2020 | 9:00 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Lethbridge Police and Special Olympics Alberta are not letting COVID-19 take away their fundraising momentum.

Due to the pandemic, the regular summer fundraising events for Special Olympics had to be cancelled, so the two parties are thinking outside of the box with the Virtual Summer Series.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) series-style event will comprise of three legs: biking, running and walking. Those can be tackled as an individual or as a team.

Participants have the ability to choose to register for all three event legs, or individual legs, and choose distance goals that suit their fitness level.

“We wanted to ensure there was still an opportunity for the community to come together virtually – not only to support the Special Olympics athletes but enjoy some time outdoors working on their own fitness goals,” stated LPS Constable Braylon Hyggen.

It’s suggested that participants aim for a time frame of 30 days for each activity, starting with biking on June 15, running on July 15 and walking on August 15.

Anyone taking part can track their stats through any app they choose, then log their results with Special Olympics Alberta.

Suggested biking goals range from 25 to 1,000 kilometres, running 25 to 500 kilometres and walking 25,000 to 500,000 steps.

Those who take part in all three legs will receive a 2020 Virtual Summer Series medal once they complete the event.

Distances submitted for the running and walking legs will also be added to the Special Olympics Walk the World with Me campaign.

It costs $15 to register for each leg individually, and $45 to register for all three together. Proceeds will benefit more than 3,300 Alberta Special Olympics athletes by providing both training and virtual socializing opportunities to ensure good mental health during the challenges of COVID-19.

Registration can be completed here.