The annual Alabama Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics made its way to Troy Friday, finishing the final leg from the Troy Police Department to Trojan Arena.

This year marks the 10th year that Troy University has hosted the Alabama Special Olympics State Games, which will be attended by more than 1,300 Special Olympians this weekend

Law enforcement officers from all over the state began the run Thursday in Huntsville, working their way through six more cities, including Decatur and Birmingham, before finishing the day in Pelham.

The run picked up from Pelham Friday morning with the runners carrying the “Flame of Hope” to Montgomery before finishing in Troy.

Troy Police Capt. Danny Barron was in attendance for the run, as he has been every year since the games moved to Troy.

“Words can’t describe what it means to watch them compete,” Barron said of the Special Olympians. “It’s the least we can do. Watching them gives me the strength to go out and do what I do every day.”

“We’re honored to be a part of it,” said Troy Police Chief Randall Barr.

“Any time you can help children, especially with special needs– the police department is honored to help out.”

“An athlete is chosen every year to go with the officer carrying the torch,” said Debbie Sumrall, ALETR state director, “and seeing the look on their faces is an amazing moment. This is often the highlight of their week or month, and sometimes even their year.”

The ALETR seeks to raise money for the Special Olympics and awareness through their run.

Lt. Mark Bishop of the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office carried the torch in for the opening ceremonies at 7 p.m. Friday in Trojan Arena.

The games begin at 9 a.m. Saturday with 11 competitions being held including aquatics, gymnastics, track and field, and softball.

This day will end with a special Victory Dance, as Elvis tribute artist Scot Bruce will hold a public concert in Trojan Arena at 7p.m.

Closing ceremonies will be held in Trojan Arena at 9 a.m. Sunday following a baseball game between Special Olympians and community players at Riddle-Pace Field at 8 a.m.