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The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics made its way to western Connecticut Friday.

Around 1,500 police officers across the state concluded the annual three-day run ahead of the Special Olympics Connecticut Summer Games.

Officers passed the ceremonial Flame of Hope at each town line.

"Carrying the torch to symbolize guarding the flame to choose to include for Special Olympics," said Sgt. Christopher DiFalco, of the Ridgefield Police Department.

The run began in eastern and central Connecticut Wednesday morning and ended at Fairfield University Friday afternoon where the Summer Games Opening Ceremony took place.

Proceeds from the run will benefit Special Olympics Connecticut.

"To help them not only do their specific sport, but also with medical and other things they need in order to participate in the events," said Officer Elice Ackerman, of the Wilton Police Department. "Personally having members and friends who are part of the Special Olympics, it means a lot to me."

"People don't realize how special the opportunity is to compete," athlete Dashe Lipke added.

"We go have got to do what we can to support them, and this is the funding that they need to do it, and we're happier than we could be to do it," DiFalco said.

The Summer Games will take place over the next two weekends at several universities, including Fairfield University.

For the full list of events, click here.

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