Florida Law Enforcement Torch Run 2026

On a warm April morning, Citrus County joined communities across Florida for the 43rd Annual Florida Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Florida, bringing together law enforcement officers, Special Olympics athletes, Key Training Center clients, families, and supporters in a celebration of inclusion and community spirit.

The Flame of Hope traveled through Crystal River and Inverness before participants gathered at Publix in Inverness for the final one-mile walk to the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center. Along the route, athletes and supporters shared moments of encouragement, connection, and pride that reflected the mission of both Special Olympics Florida and the Key Training Center.

Community partnerships played an important role throughout the event. Publix locations in Inverness and Crystal River provided refreshments for participants, while CoreCivic hosted a post-run celebration for athletes, volunteers, and law enforcement officers after the relay’s completion.

The final stretch of the Torch Run was led by Key Training Center clients Matt Gosse and Ginny Crider, who proudly carried the Flame of Hope into downtown Inverness. Their participation highlighted the importance of inclusion and the opportunities created when communities come together to support individuals of all abilities.

The Florida Law Enforcement Torch Run spans more than 1,500 miles statewide and supports Special Olympics Florida through fundraising, awareness, and community engagement. In Citrus County, the event once again demonstrated the power of local organizations, families, and supporters working together to celebrate and empower Special Olympics athletes and the individuals served by the Key Training Center.