ABOUT LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN
Where it All Began
The Law Enforcement Torch Run, initiated in 1981 by Police Chief Richard LaMunyon from Wichita, Kansas, has grown into a worldwide movement. What began as a humble initiative has transformed into a global beacon of hope and unity, driven by the collective efforts of law enforcement volunteers.
These dedicated individuals join hands with Special Olympics athletes to champion the cause of acceptance and inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Torch Run in Australia
The LETR movement started in Australia in 2002 when NSW Police Commissioner Ken Moroney was asked to support Special Olympics Australia by escorting the ‘Flame of Hope’ into the Opening Ceremony of the 2002 Special Olympics National Games in Sydney.
Following on from that initial contact with Special Olympics, a group of serving NSW police officers formed Law Enforcement Torch Run (NSW). Over the next couple of years, they worked with colleagues in the other states to encourage them to form their own programs.
There are currently LETR Programs in all five mainland Australian states (New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia).
In the past twenty years, LETR programs across the country have raised more than $5 million to support the athletes of Special Olympics.
“Defenders, Protectors, and Keepers dedicated to safeguarding and preserving the Special Olympics Flame of Hope — a symbol of courage, acceptance, and diversity for individuals with intellectual disabilities. This honor is entrusted to the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.”
Meet the Committee
Scott Whyte
President
Ben Macfarlane
Vice President
Alan Keane
Treasurer
Naomi Earle
Secretary
Tina Davies
Torch Run Coordinator
Claire Hawthorn
Events Coordinator
Hayley Schubert
SO Liaison
Darryal Abeyasekera
SO Liaison
Contact Us
Law Enforcement Torch Run New South Wales
Attn: Alan Keane
LETR NSW
PO Box 1061
Sutherland, NSW 1499
