Officers throughout Hudson County, including in Secaucus for the first time this year, ran and passed the Special Olympics Torch from city to city last month while residents cheered them on. The Law Enforcement Torch Run started Friday, June 10 in North Bergen, continued through Jersey City, and made its way to the state’s southern tip.
In Secaucus, before the day of the run, police went to schools to encourage students to donate to the Special Olympics for a free t-shirt and an opportunity to run for awareness. The students were able to raise more than $3,100, according to retired Police Captain Joseph Kickey.
“We got all the schools involved.” — Marc Schoch
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Instead of running town to town, the officers and students ran from school to school. Ten Secaucus police officers and more than 60 students ran 4.2 miles to show support for Special Olympians.
“We ran to Clarendon school to pick up the kids, took a photo, and ran a half a mile to pass the torch to the next school, Huber Street School,” Schoch said. After that, they went to the middle school and high school.
He added, “Huber Street got involved by having students waiting outside and cheering for everyone. It was great. It made us feel welcome, and made it feel like a big success for the first time.”
Kickey said, “The enthusiasm of the students taking part in this fundraiser for Special Olympian Athletes was something to see. They took the time and made the effort to run for those who couldn’t, but who will compete in Special Olympic Events where they will have the chance to compete, excel, and experience the thrill of victory.”
Schoch said, “The kids kept the pace with us, and some ran in front of us. It was a good time.” According to Schoch, the youngest runner was 10. “I noticed some parents in front of the schools. I want to thank the parents and principals who let the children run with us,” he said.
Runners and supporters were missing Mayor Michael Gonnelli, who suffered a stroke last month, during the run.
Schoch said, “Everybody had a great time, and it brought the community together. That’s something our mayor is involved with.”
Schoch added, “Everyone missed him. He brings our community together, and this event did this. Having the Police Department involved with local students was a great feeling.”
Samantha Meyers can be reached at samantham@hudsonreporter.com .