Palm Bay Deputy Chief Jeff Spears lit the torch at the start of the Law Enforcement Torch Run in support of Special Olympics Florida on March 26. The event drew officers from Palm Bay and Melbourne Police Departments, who joined runners along a 1.2-mile route on Minton Road to Jupiter Blvd. The run began and ended at Sacrifice Park, located in front of the Franklin T. DeGroodt Memorial Library. Organizers said the event aimed to raise funds and visibility for athletes with intellectual disabilities competing in Special Olympics Florida programs.
The route passed through residential areas of Palm Bay before turning onto Jupiter Blvd. Participants included law enforcement officers, community members, and athletes from local Special Olympics teams. Palm Bay Officer Chelo Zamor carried the event flag during the opening ceremony. The run started at 6:15 p.m. ET, with temperatures in the mid-70s. Local businesses along the route displayed banners supporting the cause.
Before the run, Pineapple Cove Classical Academy students Karina Alonso, Rebecca Zauner, and Alaina Stinson performed the National Anthem. Palm Bay Mayor Rob Medina addressed the crowd, thanking participants for their support. He noted that the event has raised over $50,000 for Special Olympics Florida in the past three years. 'This is about more than a race,' Medina said. 'It's about showing these athletes they have a community behind them.'
The event follows a tradition started in 2005 by Brevard County law enforcement. This year's run included 23 agencies from across the county. Proceeds will fund training programs, equipment, and competition travel for athletes. Special Olympics Florida spokeswoman Maria Lopez said the organization serves 2,500 athletes in Brevard County annually. The next Law Enforcement Torch Run is scheduled for April 15 in Titusville.