Madera law enforcement helps Special Olympics

For The Madera Tribune

Members of the Madera Guardians stand with members of the Madera County Special Olympics on the steps of the Madera County Museum before the annual Torch Run on Wednesday.

---

Madera City and County law enforcement, known as the Madera Guardians, helped raise money for Special Olympics Northern California with the annual Law Enforcement Torch run on Wednesday. 

“We come together not just as participants, but as a united community fueled by one powerful purpose — to support and celebrate the athletes of Special Olympics,” said Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue during the opening ceremonies Wednesday. “This event is more than just a run. It’s a powerful symbol of hope. Every step we take, every mile we run, carries that flame closer to a world where individuals with intellectual disabilities are embraced, valued, and empowered.

The Torch Run includes more than 3,500 law enforcement personnel from hundreds of local agencies carrying the Special Olympics Flame of Hope throughout Northern California. The Torch Run will culminate at the annual Summer Games, held this year from June 27-29 at Santa Clara University. Summer Games is the largest local Special Olympics event and brings together more than 1,000 athletes and coaches from 20-plus counties to compete in multiple sports.