Torch Run a Canyon tradition
April 27 run will go from Mather Point to Tusayan
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. - Without the support of communities from throughout the United States, Special Olympics wouldn't be what it is today. The sentiment is true from New York to California and it's no different at the Grand Canyon. Just ask local resident Bill Barber, who works at Maswick Lodge near the South Rim. For seven years, Barber has participated in the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run at the Grand Canyon.
This year's run will be held April 27 starting at 6 a.m. The run begins at Mather Point and will end at the McDonald's restaurant in Tusayan.
"After that we get a free breakfast," Barber said. "People that want to run can use bicycles, motorcycles, or any means of transportation to feel comfortable. You don't have to run all the way. We will have transportation for those who can't run the eight miles. Everything is provided."
Barber called the event an important one for the awareness it brings to Special Olympics and to all the athletes who participate in it.
"It brings unity, bringing people together," Barber said. "I've seen a lot of growth in people wanting to help. The community is starting to acknowledge that what I am doing is good."
For the last three years Barber has helped to organize the event. Prior to that he carried the torch for the run.
"The Law Enforcement Torch Run started in 1981 in Wichita, Kansas. It was a police detective in Kansas who saw the need of carrying the torch to create awareness for Special Olympics and once that started it just caught fire and spread across America," Barber said. "We want to open it up to the community. Anyone who wants to participate in the run can show up to Mather Point at 6 a.m. All we ask is that you sign a waiver form so that people can be protected for insurance purposes. We have done this in the past with the high school track and field and other groups."
T-shirts will also be for sale to commemorate this year's run, Barber said. The shirts will cost $15, with all proceeds going to Special Olympics.
The Torch Run has received two donations so far, he said, including one from Grand Canyon Recreation Center for $750.
"I would like to thank them for that," Barber said. "We also have a $200 donation from an anonymous donor. I would like to thank Joe Wilcox and Della Yurick. They came on board last November. I give them thanks for helping me out."
Besides this year's event, Barber said plans are currently underway for a gala 30-year celebration in 2011.
"Next year, in 2011, it will be the (national torch run's) 30th anniversary," Barber said. "I would like to somehow organize and make a big deal for the anniversary, to create something wonderful, maybe even carrying torch around the loop inside the village as an expression of gratitude for the community, and of course people can line up around the loop."
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