Poinciana Elementary

Law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes will unite on Friday, April 24, 2026, for the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run benefiting Special Olympics Florida.

Known as the “Guardians of the Flame,” this statewide event brings together thousands of officers from hundreds of agencies to carry the “Flame of Hope” through communities across all 67 counties. The Torch Run raises critical funds and awareness to support year-round sports training and competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities, while promoting inclusion, respect, and opportunity for all.

Locally, the Torch Run will make its way through the Lower Keys and Key West, beginning at approximately 8:00 a.m. at the College of the Florida Keys on Stock Island. From there, runners will travel a community-centered route with scheduled stops at Gerald Adams Elementary School (8:10 a.m.), the MCSO Fountain (8:30 a.m.), Sears Town/Old Publix (9:00 a.m.), and the New Publix Key Plaza Shopping Center (9:15 a.m.). The run will continue to Poinciana Elementary School (9:30 a.m.) and Horace O’Bryant Middle School (10:00 a.m.), followed by stops at the MARC House (10:30 a.m.) before concluding at the Southernmost Point at approximately 11:15 a.m.

The event will culminate in a symbolic torch exchange from the Monroe County Sheriff to the Chief of Key West, highlighting the strong partnership between law enforcement and Special Olympics athletes.

Community members are encouraged to line the route, cheer on participants, and show their support for this inspiring cause. The Law Enforcement Torch Run ultimately leads into the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games, celebrating the achievements, determination, and spirit of its athletes while reinforcing the power of unity within the community.