The Flame of Hope is officially on the move after the 2026 Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Vermont kicked off Monday at the Vermont State House.Law enforcement officers, athletes, and community members gathered to light four torches, which will travel through communities across Vermont before arriving at Saint Michael’s College for Opening Ceremonies on June 5.The annual Torch Run raises awareness and support for Special Olympics athletes while helping fund year-round sports programs across the state.For athlete Rici Prude, the ceremony marks the start of a busy month that includes competing in the Vermont Summer Games before representing Vermont at the Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota.“I’ve been training well myself, and I’ve been training with my coaches,” Prude said.The Torch Run concludes Friday when the cauldron is lit at Opening Ceremonies.
The Flame of Hope is officially on the move after the 2026 Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Vermont kicked off Monday at the Vermont State House.
Law enforcement officers, athletes, and community members gathered to light four torches, which will travel through communities across Vermont before arriving at Saint Michael’s College for Opening Ceremonies on June 5.
The annual Torch Run raises awareness and support for Special Olympics athletes while helping fund year-round sports programs across the state.
For athlete Rici Prude, the ceremony marks the start of a busy month that includes competing in the Vermont Summer Games before representing Vermont at the Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota.
“I’ve been training well myself, and I’ve been training with my coaches,” Prude said.
The Torch Run concludes Friday when the cauldron is lit at Opening Ceremonies.
