GWINNETT COUNTY — Law enforcement officers from across Gwinnett County and neighboring agencies ran 20 miles Thursday, June 11, carrying the Flame of Hope to raise awareness and support for Special Olympics Georgia.
The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run began near the Forsyth County line at McGinnis Ferry Road and Peachtree Industrial Boulevard in Suwanee and continued across Gwinnett before ending near the Walton County line in Loganville.
The event is one of many torch runs held each year by law enforcement agencies throughout Georgia to promote inclusion and raise funds for the Special Olympics Georgia Summer Games.
For Gwinnett County Police Assistant Chief Jason Rozier, the event is more than a fundraiser. His son, Colten, who was born with Down syndrome, competes in Special Olympics soccer and basketball.
“When my son was born, I just wanted to immerse ourselves in learning about special needs individuals,” Rozier said.
He said participating in the annual torch run has become deeply personal because of the opportunities Special Olympics has provided his family.
The run brought together police officers, recruits, community members and Special Olympics athletes, including Tyrese Black, who joined the event alongside his supporters.
“These races mean a lot to us,” a family member said. “Tyrese loves long races. Twenty miles is good for him.”
Along the route, police recruits took turns pushing athletes who participated in wheelchairs, reinforcing the event’s message of inclusion.
“This is a symbol,” Rozier said. “This is a message of inclusion.”
After completing the 20-mile course, Rozier joked that he had “a date with an ice bath,” but said the effort was well worth it.
“He loves this,” Rozier said of his son. “Really, it’s inspirational. He has a lot to offer the world, and one of the ways is through running.”
As officers carried the Flame of Hope across the county, Rozier said the torch represented something greater than the run itself.
“This flame represents hope,” he said, “and our job as law enforcement is to play a part in never letting that hope go out.”
