The Torch Run was held on June 5, with many fifth and sixth-grade students participating to raise money for the Special Olympics. To participate, runners donated $20 or more and received a Torch Run shirt. Once registered, they were able to run alongside other participants.
Although the Torch Run is an optional activity, many students choose to take part each year. According to Special Olympics New Jersey, more than 14,000 participants took time out of their day to raise awareness and support athletes with intellectual disabilities. This year in Emerson, New Jersey, the run began at 6:00 a.m. Students started at the park near Emerson Junior-Senior High School and ran to Patrick M. Villano School.
“I felt really happy and excited to do it, and it was really fun at the end,” Valentina Palladino, a fifth-grader, said. “It’s a good activity, and it helps everybody get some exercise. I would want to do it again next year. They did say it was going to be longer, so I’m really excited for that.”
Kennedy Duffy, a fifth-grade student, also participated in the event.
“It was really easy. Most of the adults were really slow, so I just walked the whole time,” Duffy said. “I will run in the Torch Run again next year. I like it because I got to get out of class and experience something new.”
The money raised helps provide athletes with equipment, uniforms, transportation, lodging, and other resources needed to participate in Special Olympics events. Through their efforts, students helped raise awareness and support a meaningful cause.
