About 200 people took part in the Special Olympics Guardian Run at the Ontario Provincial Police headquarters in Orillia on Sunday morning, with the goal of raising $40,000 to support the Special Olympics Ontario.

The clear, warm weather created perfect conditions for the participation of Special Olympics athletes, Ontario Provincial Police officers and other supporters, with the opportunity to run or walk a five- or ten kilometers.

“Today is an awareness day. Awareness of our athletes and inclusion,” said Derek Spence of Special Olympics Ontario. “To see not only members of law enforcement, but members of the running community, members of the Orillia community and the surrounding area, all participating in this is just incredible.” This makes it even more unique and special.

The Guardian Run is part of the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), which is the OPP’s largest fundraising event for Special Olympics Ontario and has raised more than of $50 million since its creation in 1987.

Sunday morning’s race officially began with the official passing of the “torch” from Ontario Provincial Police Commissioner Thomas Carrique to Stephen Graham, former Special Olympics Ontario Male Athlete of the Year. Funds raised will help LETR support Special Olympics athletes with expenses such as training, travel, accommodation and more.

“It’s incredible. It’s touching. With everyone’s support we wouldn’t be what we are today,” Graham said before completing the ten kilometer course. The Orillia native is also a LETR ambassador.

“They are incredible individuals,” Carrique said. “If we can help them in any way by giving them the opportunity to do what they love and allowing them to give their best, then it’s a good opportunity that we should all grasp.”

25 Ontario athletes will represent Canada at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Italy.