LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS NEW YORK RETURNS TO DUTCHESS AND ULSTER COUNTIES

Poughkeepsie, NY – The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics New York will make its way through Dutchess and Ulster counties on Friday, May 29, 2026, and community members are invited to take part in this inspiring event.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026, the Law Enforcement Torch Run is more than a run—it’s a statewide movement led by the “Guardians of the Flame.” This title is proudly carried by more than 6,200 law enforcement officers representing over 470 agencies across New York. Together, they carry the Flame of Hope to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics New York, alongside athletes, families, and supporters.

Event details

- When: Friday, May 29, 2026, beginning at 10:00 am

- Start Location: Franklin D. Roosevelt Library and Museum, 4079 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park

- Distance: Approximately 8-mile awareness run

- Participants: Law enforcement and first responder agencies from Dutchess and Ulster counties, along with community members

Route overview

The run will begin at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Library and Museum and proceed south along U.S. Route 9, passing through the Marist University campus. Participants will connect to the MJM Northside Trail and continue onto the Dutchess Rail Trail.

The route then leads to the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, continues toward Haviland Road in Highland, and crosses the Mid-Hudson Bridge back into the City of Poughkeepsie. The final stretch follows North Water Street and Main Street, concluding at Mahoney’s Irish Pub & Steakhouse.

Community members are encouraged to line the route, cheer on participants, or register to join in for portions of the run in support of Special Olympics athletes.

Registration

To register or purchase a commemorative t-shirt supporting Special Olympics New York and the Law Enforcement Torch Run, please call Susanne O’Neil, Director of Development at 845-262-6011.

About Special Olympics New York

Special Olympics New York is one of the largest state chapters in the country, serving more than 51,000 athletes across New York with year-round sports training, athletic competition, and health screenings. The organization also partners with more than 375 schools statewide to offer Unified Sports, where students with and without disabilities compete as teammates. All Special Olympics New York programs are offered at no cost to athletes, their families or caregivers. The organization has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid and a 3-star rating from Charity Navigator, making it one of the most trusted charities in the business nationally. For additional information about Special Olympics New York, to learn more about getting involved, or to make a donation, www.specialolympicsNY.org.