Local police carry the torch on fundraising run for Special Olympics
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Special Olympics athletes joined more than a dozen Glendale and Burbank police officers on Wednesday as they ran several miles through their respective cities to raise money for this weekend’s games.
Leading the pack during part of the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run through Glendale, with the torch in hand, was 17-year-old runner and La Crescenta resident Michael Leon, who is slated to compete in three races during the Special Olympics Southern California games.
“It was fun,” Leon said. “It’s good to prepare for the summer games.”
Cheering him on from the sidelines as he approached the Glendale Police Headquarters were his parents, along with city and police officials.
“It was a tear-jerker moment,” said his mother, Kathy Leon, while the group stopped to take photos. “I know it’ll be something he won’t talk about right now, but that he will remember forever.”
Glendale Police Det. Jeff Davis, a second-time runner, hoped to raise awareness about the program.
“It means a lot to see (the athletes) participate with us,” he said.
Officers donated about $800 to the Special Olympics, which goes toward equipment, supplies and facilities for the athletes.
“My two causes are fallen officers and their families, and special athletes because they both have more courage than anybody I’ve ever met,” said Glendale Police Officer Sue Shine, who organized the 5.5-mile run through Glendale.
Burbank Police Pilot Jason Embleton, along with his twin brother, John, an officer and K-9 handler, logged 4.5 miles through Burbank for the cause. They were joined by three cadets and a jailer.
“It helps kids that actually need the help,” said Jason Embleton, a first-time runner. “It’s good to be a role model to people that appreciate us.”
The run also serves as a bonding experience for each agency.
“It brings us closer together,” said Magdalena Bautista, who’s been a Burbank police cadet for three years.