The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run supporting Special Olympics is passing through Emporia soon.
The special bike ride, transporting the Special Olympics torch to the summer games, will take place Thursday, June 4th at 9 am in Kellogg Circle at Emporia State University. Lyon County Undersheriff John Koelsch, a guest of KVOE’s Morning Show Monday, says local law enforcement has participated in the ride since 1984, when it operated under a different format.
Later, Koelsch would invite KVOE General Manager Ron Thomas to take part in the festivities, creating the annual Ron’s Ride, which has helped to generate thousands of dollars in support for local Special Olympics athletes. Thomas recalls the earlier days of the fundraising effort, saying it started small but has grown significantly over the years.
The Special Olympics torch will arrive in Emporia on June 3rd, the day before the annual procession down Commercial Street, which will see law enforcement and Thomas joined by many of the local Special Olympians planning to participate in the summer games in Wichita. If you would like to donate to Ron’s Ride, you can do so by contacting KVOE at 620-342-1400, texting donations to 620-342-5863, or going online to KVOE.com.
