WATCH: The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run kicked off this weekend to raise money for local Special Olympic athletes. Kori Sidaway brings you the story of an athlete who’s inspiring others to follow their dreams.
Police departments from all over the south island put on the 4th Annual Free The Fuzz fundraiser this weekend, for special Olympic athletes.
Police chiefs flipped pancakes while other officers camped out for 72 hours to raise money for the athletes.
“It’s one of those charities that’s way underfunded in my opinion, because unless you know someone that has a mental disability it’s not something you tend to gravitate to, but if they went to an event, they’d understand how much it changes their lives,” said Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR ) organizer Sheri Lucas.
Adam Irwin-Gunn is one of many special Olympic athletes out this weekend running to raise money for BC’s special Olympic team.
“Fundraisers like this allows the athletes to go to nationals, to go to words or even just to go up island,” he said.
Listening to the athletes, you can feel the power of sport and community.”I like to be nice and get along and work together and help other athletes out, and I like my sports!” said special Olympian Brett Robinson.
They are also proud of their hardware. But, the medals aren’t everything.
“It’s very special for me because it’s something I’ve been able to accomplish for a good friend of mine who also shared the love for ball ? softball, baseball,” said Adam.
“He died at 13 so a couple years ago very unexpectedly. So, holding the torch today just made me think I did this for my Mom, and my friend who died.”
Adam says he hopes to inspire the next generation of special Olympic athletes.
“No matter what different ability whatever obstacle people might label you as, in the end, only you know who you are, and you know what you can do whatever you want,” Adam said.
“Don’t be afraid to be who you are because you’re awesome, and just try new things.”
Next up for the athletes is Nationals in Antigonish Nova Scotia in late July.
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