Rochester Police on the run for Special Olympics

Rochester Police Officers run and bike through the downtown today as part of the Special Olympics Torch Run. (Rochester Voice photo)

ROCHESTER - About a dozen Rochester police officers ran from Farmington to Somersworth today as part of the Special Olympics Torch Run which will culminate with the lighting of the ceremonial cauldron by Rochester Police Community Engagement Officer Kyle Danie tonight at UNH's Wildcat Stadium.

The cauldron lighting will signify the start of the Granite State's Special Olympics Summer Games.

Farmington Police handed off the torch to Rochester Police at the Rochester line on Route 11 not far from Walmart.

Rochester Police then ran the eight miles through the downtown and up Rochester Hill Road along Route 108 to the Somersworth line where Somersworth Police took over.

Rhonda Young, who works as an accountant for the Rochester Police Department, said it was a great day for a run as she jogged along North Main Street in the downtown.

"It's a fun event," she said. "I'm mostly competing against myself."

Law Enforcement officers from all over New Hampshire participated in carrying the torch more than 500 across the state.

Officer Justin Seckendorf of the Rochester Police Motor Unit will also represent the department at the opening ceremony, where he'll ride a department motorcycle in the motor parade for the Olympians.

During this year's Summer Games, 800 athletes from across New Hampshire will compete in numerous events.