Torch Run for Special Olympics at OPS Central

On Friday, September 19, 2025, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS), together with local law enforcement partners, proudly hosted this year’s Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR). The event began at 10:00 a.m. at OPS Central (474 Elgin Street) and brought together officers, staff, and community members in support of Special Olympics Ontario.

The Torch Run was much more than a run—it was part of a global movement. Since 1987, the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run, supported by the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), has raised awareness and funds for Special Olympics Canada. Today, more than 97,000 officers worldwide carry the “Flame of Hope”, a powerful symbol of courage, inclusion, and unity. Known as the Guardians of the Flame, law enforcement members and Special Olympics athletes light the way for acceptance and celebration of diversity through sport.

Mayor Sutcliffe also attended the event to show his support. He extended his gratitude to OPS for showing up year after year for Special Olympics athletes in several events and fundraisers.

This year’s Ottawa event featured a relaxed-paced 5 km run (and walk) through the downtown core. Participants followed a route from 474 Elgin Street, north to Wellington Street, west to Bank Street, south to Argyle Avenue, and back to OPS Central.

OPS members ran alongside local Special Olympians, whose energy and determination inspired everyone taking part.

In addition to the run, members purchased Torch Run t-shirts, with proceeds going directly to Special Olympics Ontario. Even those who couldn’t join the run showed their support by wearing the shirts proudly.

The event was a resounding success, keeping the Flame of Hope burning bright in our community and strengthening OPS’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, teamwork, and community spirit.