KPD Officers Run to Benefit Special Olympics

2014 First Hawaiian Bank Troy Barboza Torch Run

KPD, along with various city, state and federal agencies participated in the 2014 First Hawaiian Bank Troy Barboza Torch Run benefiting Special Olympics Kaua’i.

Sgt. Rod Green led the “Guardians of the Flame” around Vidinha Stadium in Lihu‘e to the finish line. The law enforcement officers were then greeted by 88 event participants, many coaches and fans.

Participating athletes represented various schools across the island. Special Olympics Kauai sponsored the opening ceremonies for the annual games.

Following the Torch Run and Opening Ceremonies, athletes lit up the stadium by competing in 14 different events which included the 50-meter dash, standing and running long-jump, shot put, softball throw and Unified Sports relay events. The trademark Unified Sports combines Special Olympics Athletes with athletes without intellectual disabilities (partners) on sports teams for training and competition.

KPD Chief Darryl Perry

KPD is committed to continuing its partnership with Special Olympics Kaua’i in fulfilling their mission for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The torch run is one of many events to which officers volunteer their time and give back to their community.

The First Hawaiian Bank Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run is a coordinated project of KPD and Special Olympics Kaua’i.

The Torch Run was created in 1981 by Police Chief Richard Lamunyon of Wichita, Kansas, who, along with a couple of deputies, ran the first torch run for Special Olympics. The torch is now carried by law enforcement officers — referred to as “Guardians of the Flame” — in every state and in more than 40 other countries.

In Hawai’i, the torch run is named after fallen Honolulu Police officer Troy Barboza, who volunteered as a Special Olympics coach and participated in the first Torch Run in Hawai’i.

Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort and Spa and First Hawaiian Bank contributed to make this year’s torch run a success.