HOPE– The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics will come through Hope on Tuesday, May 16. The mission of the Torch Run is to increase awareness and raise funds for Special Olympics.

The ultimate destination of the torch will be the Opening Ceremonies at the State Special Olympics competition at Harding University in Searcy. 

The torch is scheduled to begin the journey to Hope at the Guernsey intersection on Highway 67 at approximately 8:30 a.m. 

Once in Hope around late morning, the caravan and runners will turn left on Elm Street in front of BancorpSouth and LaGrone Williams Hardware, proceed to Division Street and turn right in front of the ROC Enterprises building, then dash to Main Street and turn in front of Tailgaters Burger Co.

The group will proceed up Main Street in front of the Hope/Hempstead Chamber of Commerce  building and businesses Rae Tay’s Bridal Shop and Four States Furniture.

The runners stop to refresh in the ROC parking lot at 500 South Main Street in Hope during late morning.

After a short presentation and water break, the runners will exit back to Hwy 67, where the torch will continue its trek to Searcy by way of another stop in Prescott. 

Business and community members along the route are encouraged to come outside and show their support for the runners as they pass.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Arkansas got its beginnings in 1987 by what was known as The Arkansas Secret. The original 30-mile run is now a four-day relay to cover more than 1,200 miles and 700 runners.

Rainbow of Challenges, Inc. (ROC) is a private, non-profit, community-based provider of a vast array of
supports and services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Rainbow of Challenges is
an equal opportunity provider and employer.