As you all remember, the annual Torch Run which is run in conjunction with the June Summer Games was a Virtual Event due to the pandemic and cancellation of Summer Games in Towson. SOMD extended the Virtual Torch Run and on October 9th at City Dock in Annapolis, the Flame of Hope was passed to law enforcement officers from around the state. Over the next week, these officers visited their local communities to visit athletes at their practices to show their support.
We were fortunate to have our local officers and SOMD CEO Jim Schmutz bring the Flame of Hope to our distance running practice on the next day. According to Distance Running Coordinator, Ann Worley, “The athletes eagerly anticipated [their] visit and were not disappointed! The ceremonial run around the pond with the torch was indeed memorable. Everyone (athletes, volunteers, and families) were grateful for the words of encouragement and the athletes were thrilled that the officers ran alongside them. Among their practices this season, that day was truly a highlight.” Click here to listen to the post-event interview with Distance