Brockville Police Service, athletes team up for Special Olympics Torch Run

Community members, athletes and police officers came together on the morning of Tuesday, June 16 as the Brockville Police Service hosted its annual Torch Run in support of Special Olympics Ontario.

The event began at Hardy Park shortly before 11 a.m., with participants joining in the symbolic run to raise awareness and support for local Special Olympics athletes and programs.

The weather was perfect as the group, joined by students from St Mary’s, travelled through Brockville raising money for the organization. 

The run concluded at St Lawrence Park where a barbeque lunch was provided by the Brockville police.

The annual Torch Run is part of a province-wide initiative that sees police services and law enforcement agencies partner with Special Olympics to promote inclusion, celebrate athletes and raise funds for programs that provide year-round sports opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. As of 2026, they support over 22,000 athletes across the province, including approximately 80 athletes and 70 volunteers from Brockville.

The Torch Run remains one of Brockville Police Service’s most popular community events, bringing together officers, athletes, volunteers and local residents in support of Special Olympics, a cause that continues to make a positive impact throughout the region.

Members of the Brockville Special Olympics – Jess Grothe/Brockvilleist

In Brockville the Special Olympics currently offers nine different sports for participants to join, note offerings do vary depending on the season. The current spring/summer sports offered include track and field, softball, soccer and outdoor bocce ball. 

In the fall/winter season, the available activities are indoor bocce ball, basketball, Nordic skiing, swimming, and floor hockey.

Registration is open for anyone over the age of 12, and the $50 annual registration fee offers access to any and all programs provided there is space open.

If you are interested in joining or supporting the Special Olympics, go to brockville.specialolympicsontario.ca for more information.

With files from Jess Grothe