Special Olympics: Passing the torch through Flagler County

Palm Coast Observer
Neighbors

As the caravan of runners carrying the torch for Special Olympics Florida neared the BP station on State Road 100 on April 27, a group of Special Olympics athletes cheered. With a rush of speed and excitement, they joined in the last leg of the Flagler County Special Olympics Florida Law Enforcement Torch Run.

The torch will eventually make its way to the Special Olympics Florida’s Summer Games, held May 17-18, at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports.

Officers and athletes were joined on the 4.4-mile run, which started and ended at Woody’s Bar-B-Q, by support runners from the Flagler County Runners club.

Not only does the event raise funds for the program, but it also raises awareness.

Locals being the event include Deputy Gerald Ditolla, who organized the run. He also volunteers as a power lifting coach for the athletes.

“Jerry has done a wonderful job,” said Barbara Quadara, mother of two athletes. “He has done so much. This would not be possible without him.”