By Cynthia Grau and Howard Packowitz
NORMAL – The Illinois Special Olympics Summer Games are underway, and the flame that lit the cauldron at Illinois State University’s Hancock Stadium Friday night was carried by a contingent of Illinois’ finest.
Law enforcement torch run participant Kirk McCormick, from the Pontiac Correctional Center, biked the length between Morris and Pontiac Thursday before heading back out for the final miles Friday mornin.
“This has been an amazing experience,” said McCormick.
“You’re recognizing all of law enforcement across the entire state coming together and spreading awareness, and making people know what the law enforcement torch run is, and supporting Special Olympics,” McCormick added.
Special Olympian D.J. Doughty watched the torch run in Pontiac.
“I made a lot of my friends through Special Olympics,” said D.J. “I got involved when I was seven-years old, and I’ve been an athlete ever since,” he said.
“It’s the best,” said Special Olympics athlete Wendy Rutherford. “It’s a whole lot of fun.”
The Summer Games continue through the weekend with competition in six sports, a ‘Victory’ dance in Uptown Normal Saturday evening, and closing ceremonies Sunday evening.
Cynthia Grau can be reached at [email protected]
