Third Annual IACP Torch Run Photo Contest
September 12, 2003 - Representatives from the IACP and Special Olympics International met today to judge the entries of the Third Annual IACP Torch Run Photo Contest. From a pool of over 225 images from over 55 contributing programs, the top three winners were selected from each of two categories: law enforcement as the guardians of the flame and in interaction with the Special Olympics athletes. The winning photos are posted below.
The 2003 judging panel consisted of: From Special Olympics: Tim Shriver, Chairman; Diana Roday Hossord, Creative Director; Heather Matthews, Torch Run Specialist; and Frankie Dashnow, Special Olympics Athlete. From IACP: Dan Rosenblatt, Executive Director; Paul Santiago, Director of International Services; Vincent Talucci, Project Director, Volunteers in Police Service; and Elisa Cohen, Liaison to Torch Run Committee.
Each year this contest is a reminder of the immeasurable benefits this program offers to both the participating officers and the community they serve. Thank you to all the agencies that participated this year - the choices were difficult to make.
In 2002 this international initiative raised more than $20 million for Special Olympics. More than 85,000 law enforcement officers around the world carried the "Flame of Hope" across 35 nations, raising awareness and funds for Special Olympics.
If you would like more information about your local Torch Run program, or about starting one, contact the chair of the IACP Torch Run Committee, Lorne White at oletre@aol.com or the IACP staff liaison, D. David Paulson at paulsond@theiacp.org or visit the torch run section of the Special Olympics website.
2003 Winners
Category A: Law enforcement as the guardians of the flame—personnel carrying the torch, interacting with communities, raising funds and awareness of the events, etc
First Place: Dothan Police Dept., Dothan AL
Second Place: Special Olympics Virginia, Richmond, VA
Third Place: United States Capitol Police, Washington, DC
Category B: Law enforcement in support of the Special Olympics athletes themselves—personnel in interaction with the athlete(s).
First Place: Northern California Law Enforcement Torch Run, Pleasant Hill, CA
Second Place: Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run, Normal, IL
Third Place: Special Olympics Texas Law Enforcement Torch Run, Austin, TX
