Torch Run held in Sparta
SPARTA — The New Jersey Law Enforcement Special Olympics Torch Run commenced their annual run from High Point State Park to Trenton May 30.
For 31 years the support from members of New Jersey Law Enforcement has given athletes a chance to learn, grow and know the joy of sports and athletic competition through participation in the Special Olympics in New Jersey.
This year, Sparta Police Officers were joined by members of the Sparta High School and Pope John XXXIII Regional High School, Boys and Girls Track Teams.
The local high school athletes helped carry the Special Olympics Torch through the township.
The students of the Goodard School, Sparta Middle School and the Helen Morgan School prepared banners and posters, turning out in force to cheer the runners on. As one runner approached the Sparta Municipal Building on Main Street, the caravan of escorting police cruisers from around the state brought the run to a stop.
In the middle of Main Street, Cesar A. Morales, a Trustee of the Port Authority Police Benevolent Association and one of the state coordinators for the torch run, made a presentation to Sparta Police Cpl. Susan Parkes.
Parkes, who will retire after 25 years of active service on Jan. 31, has coordinated Sparta Township’s Torch Run efforts for the past 20 years.
She was presented with a plaque and flowers in recognition for her efforts for the past two decades.