MEDIA RELEASE
The Hawaii Police Department and volunteers will carry the “Flame of Hope” through the streets of Kailua-Kona Sunday, April 11, in an effort to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics athletes.
This event, known as the Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, is a tradition in the law enforcement community around the world. It begins at 9 a.m. at First Hawaiian Bank in the Lanihau Shopping Center.
The “Flame of Hope” will be carried along Alii Drive, go to Hale Halewai and end at The Club in Kona, where the Special Olympics West Hawaii Powerlifting Tournament will be held directly after the run.
The public is encouraged to attend the SOWH Powerlifting Tournament. Scores will be used at the State Summer Special Olympic Games on Oahu in late May.
Those who make donations of $20 or more will receive a free commemorative 2010 Troy Barboza/First Hawaiian Bank Law Enforcement Torch Run T-shirt or tank top. A $25 donation entitles the donor to a long-sleeved shirt or one in XXXL size.
For more information about the Torch Run, call the Police Department’s nonemergency line at 935-3311. To donate supplies or volunteer for the tournament, call SOWH Area Director Dave Ross at 345-1344.
