New Berlin police carry the torch in annual run to kick off Special Olympics Celebration Games

 

NEW BERLIN, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Special Olympics will hold the 50th anniversary celebration games in Waukesha County this weekend.

It starts with an opening ceremony at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 29.

The games will take place on Saturday and Sunday at Carroll University.

The New Berlin Police Department officially passed the torch at the annual 1.5 mile torch run. Police departments from around the world and the state are participating in the torch run. 

"You are entrusted with the very heart and soul of the Special Olympics," said Deputy Chief Tony Pine as he spoke to runners ahead of the torch lighting. "It's your duty to make sure the flame of hope arrives safely and on time for the more than 1,800 athletes that are coming to Waukesha." 

Law enforcement are known as the guardians of the flame. Carrying the torch into all Special Olympic Games. 

"So they guard the awareness, the athletes and the mission of what Special Olympics means to those involved," said Sarah Graper, the director of development for the Special Olympics. 

The Special Olympics mission is to offer an inclusive place for people with all disabilities to play and compete in sports. 

At the games in Waukesha this weekend, they'll have sports like swimming, soccer, track and field and more. 

As members of the police department reached the finish line, Jennifer Jimenez lead them with the torch in hand. 

"It's a really special experience for me today," said Jimenez. She is a police recruit in New Berlin and she starts the academy next week. 

"It feels really good to finish this and being able to finish off the run holding the torch," said Jimenez. 

The opening ceremony takes place at Carroll on Friday at 6 p.m.. Law enforcement from around the state will come together to support the athletes.