By MOLLY DAVIDSON / Staff Writer

PELHAM—Valley Elementary School students were treated to a special surprise as the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics ran by the school at 8:30 a.m. on May 16.

Students lined up in front of the building to greet the runners, who were accompanied by police cars, trucks and motorcycles, and even a fire truck. They excitedly cheered on and high-fived the officers as they carried the Olympic torch bound for Troy University and the Special Olympic Games.

“They love seeing the officers and high-fiving them,” PTO President Kelly Windham said. “(My son) was so excited when he heard this was happening today.”

Throughout the year, Shelby County law enforcement officers from the Torch Run for Special Olympics organization have worked to raise awareness and money for the Special Olympics.

In December, the organization hosted a Freezin’ for a Reason polar plunge at Oak Mountain State Park, and on April 25 and 26 they held Cops on Top, an all-day music and fun-filled event that raised $10,865 for the Special Olympics, more than their target amount.

The run is the organization’s final event leading up to the Olympic games. Beginning on May 15, law enforcement officers from across Shelby County and Alabama carry the Olympic torch to Troy University to light the Olympic flame for the opening of the Special Olympics.

Groups of officers ran the torch through Pelham on May 16, each running legs of about two miles. In addition to carrying the torch, the officers also take part in the opening ceremonies of the Olympic games.