Police officers across Westchester County are lacing up their running shoes as they get ready to pound the pavement for this year's Torch Run.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics kicks off today from the Yonkers Police Third Precinct. Officers and Special Olympics athletes are carrying the "Flame of Hope" from Yonkers to Mount Vernon where it will be handed off to the next group of runners.  This will happen throughout the county today until the runners reach Peekskill Riverfront Park.

Today marks the 31st year for the run in New York State, but it takes place in all 50 states and close to 50 countries. The purpose is to not only raise money for local Special Olympics programs, but also to inspire communities to open their minds accept and include people with disabilities.

It's expected to take about eight hours to get up to Peekskill. Organizers say there will be cars following the runners so they are asking drivers to be on the lookout and warn there may be slight traffic delays.