Police And Special Olympics Southland Unite For Invercargill Torch Run Ahead Of The National Summer Games

Police officers and Special Olympics athletes will unite on Sunday, 30 November 2025, for the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) in Invercargill - a global movement celebrating inclusion, awareness, and support for people with intellectual disabilities.

The event will begin at 12 noon at the ILT Stadium, where athletes and police will join forces for a lap of the running track before gathering outside the stadium for a short ceremony and photo opportunity.

The torch run is part of a nationwide build-up to the 2025 Special Olympics National Summer Games, which will be held in Christchurch, December 11 - 13th.

Event organiser Jill Hodges said the day will be a simple but meaningful show of community spirit.

“This is about celebrating inclusion, raising awareness, and giving our athletes the recognition they deserve before heading to the National Games,” Hodges said. “We’re thrilled to have the support of our local police, who play such an important role in the LETR around the world.”

Acting Senior Sergeant Ashleigh Smail from Invercargill Police said the event highlights the strong partnership between Police and Special Olympics New Zealand.

“The LETR is a fantastic opportunity for police to connect with our community and support these inspiring athletes as they prepare to represent Southland on the national stage,” Smail said.

Special Olympics patron Hon. Penny Simmonds has been invited to attend and deliver a short address before the run.

The public is encouraged to come along, cheer on the athletes, and celebrate the spirit of inclusion and friendship that the LETR represents.

Event details:
Date: Sunday, 30 November 2025
Time: 12pm
Location: ILT Stadium

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