HONOLULU (KHON2) — This year marks the 40th anniversary of the first Hawaiian Bank Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run, which honors a fallen police officer and helps support a great cause.
“It’s truly an incredible milestone that fills all of us with gratitude and pride,” said Dan Epstein, the President and CEO of Special Olympics Hawaii. “For 40 years, this event has been more than a tradition – it’s been a symbol of unity, hope, and the belief that every person deserves a chance to shine. What started as a small group of officers running in support of our athletes has grown into a powerful, statewide movement involving thousands of law enforcement volunteers from every island. It’s a testament to the heart of Hawaii, where people come together, year after year, to stand up for inclusion and show our athletes that they are valued, seen, and celebrated.”
According to the Honolulu Police Department, Officer Troy Barboza was shot to death on October 22, 1987, in his home. The culprit was a suspect previously arrested and charged as a result of an undercover narcotic investigation conducted by Officer Barboza.
The festival begins at 5 p.m. on June 6, with the program beginning at 6:30 p.m. and the Torch Run to follow. The fundraising helps support the 55th Annual State Summer Games for Special Olympics Hawaii, which runs from June 6 to June 8.
Officials said they’ll have hundreds of athletes from across the state come together to compete in sports like track and field, swimming, softball and powerlifting.
“The weekend kicks off with softball games and our Opening Ceremonies at Les Murakami Stadium on Friday night, where the Flame of Hope arrives,” Epstein said. “Saturday is packed with competition and events – including swimming, track, powerlifting, and our Healthy Athletes and Young Athletes programs – and then we end the day with softball finals and our Victory Dance. On Sunday, we wrap up with more competition and Closing Ceremonies at each event site. Our State Summer Games is really a celebration of everything Special Olympics Hawaii is about – inclusion, determination, and community – and we welcome everyone to come out and cheer on our incredible athletes.”
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For more information and to get involved with Special Olympics Hawaii, please visit sohawaii.org. You can also follow them on Facebook at @SpecialOlympicsHawaii and Instagram at @sohawaii.