TEAM PROFILES
GUARDIANS OF THE FLAME 23 – 29 JANUARY 2013
MARYLAND – USA
John Newnan
Captain Howard County Police Department
FINAL LEG TEAM CAPTAIN
John has been involved in the Torch Run since the inaugural Torch Run in Maryland in 1986. He has served as his agency coordinator, county coordinator, and has been the MD LETR Director since 1999. He is a Final Leg veteran and serves on the Torch Run Executive Council as the Region II Coordinator. John was honored in 2005 to be inducted into the Richard LaMunyon International LETR Hall of Fame.
He is especially proud that his Torch Run efforts involve his entire family, his wife Kathy, son Ryan, daughter Jessica, and daughter-in-law, Ashley who works for Special Olympics Maryland as their volunteer coordinator.
In 2008, John’s son Ryan, helped introduce the Torch Run and Polar Plunging in the Middle East while serving a tour of duty in Mosul, Iraq as an Infantry LT/Platoon leader in the U.S. Army. While in Mosul, Iraq, Ryan put together a Polar Plunge® (with 700 bags of ice!) in a combat zone raising over $6000 to benefit Special Olympics back home. John’s daughter Jessica, is a 1st grade Special Education teacher and an avid supporter of Special Olympics.
John is proud to be the Final Leg Team Captain for the 2013 Korea Final Leg and with the collaborative efforts of the Torch Run Executive Council, the Final Leg Committee, the GOC, the Team Leaders, Support Team members and all of the Running Team, knows that this will be an amazing Final Leg event that will spread untold awareness of Special Olympics throughout Korea and create excitement for the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games in PyeongChang.
Final Leg Team Profiles 1
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Jinyong An
Dalseo-gu, Daegu-si
Jinyong An is 24 years of age and lives in the town of Dalseo-gu near Daegu, about 3 hours south east of Seoul. Jinyong competed in the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens as a swimmer.
Team 8
NOVA SCOTIA - CANADA
Philip Brown
Kentville, Nova Scotia
Phil has never qualified for a World Games but has attended almost every Canadian National Games. In 1997, Phil decided that since he could not attend the World Games as an athlete he would as a volunteer. He contacted the right people in Toronto to get registered and hitch-hiked his way to the Games to volunteer. Once he arrived at the Games he made arrangements and ended up staying overnight with one of the head officials. He always wants to help and would do anything for Special Olympics, Team because as Phil always says “SO has given me so much that I could never repay it”. Phil competes in Speed Skating, Athletics, 6 Powerlifting, Soccer and Softball.
Final Leg Team Profiles 2
WASHINGTON – USA
Andrew Bryant
Seattle, Washington
Andy has competed in numerous half and full marathons. Andy has run in the Boston Marathon three times. In his first attempt in 2007, he ran a 03:06.0. Andy finished in the top 6% of all competitors. Other accomplishments include running in his 5K event at the age of 13 and running a half marathon in 01:24.00. Andy competes in Athletics, Alpine Skiing, Bowling, Distance Running (5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Marathon)
Team
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AUSTRIA
Johannes Grander
Kitzbuehel, Tyrol
Johannes is 33 years of age and comes from the spectacularly beautiful village of Kitzbuehel in the Tyrol (Austrian Alps). Johannes is an accomplished cross country skier and competed in that event in the 2009 Special Olympics Austrian National Winter Games.
Team 4
Final Leg Team Profiles 3
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Minyoung Kim
Oh Jung-Gu, Bucheon-Si
Minyoung Kim is 22 years of age and lives in the town of Oh Jung near Seoul. Minyoung is a Special Olympics Regional Messenger and competes in the sports of Swimming and Roller Skating.
Team
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ALBERTA - CANADA
Katherine St Amand
Calgary, Alberta
Katherine qualified as a member of Team Alberta at the recent National Winter Games. She trained exceedingly hard for the full year prior to the Games, rarely missing either dry land or on the hill training with Theresa Garagan, her Monitoring Coach. Her attitude is always positive, she gets along with fellow athletes and all coaches. Also very visible during the past year was the very strong support from Katherine's family in ensuring she worked on tracking her nutrition efforts. Katherine undoubtedly did the best Team job of completing her daily log book throughout her preparation for the Games. 10
Final Leg Team Profiles 4
PENNSYLVANIA – USA
Bill Shaulis
Meadville, Pennsylvania
Bill Shaulis has been with Crawford County Special Olympics for 20+ years. Out of all the sports he has participated in, his first love is athletics and long distance running. Bill was a member of the 2010 Pennsylvania Team in Lincoln Nebraska. At the National Games, Bill ran the 5K run, receiving a silver medal, the 3K. run receiving a bronze medal and the 1500m run receiving a silver medal. He was also the anchor on the 4 x 400m. relay which he received a gold medal. Bill has competed in the Fall Festival running all 3 LDR races, the 5K, 3K and the 1500 on the Team Villanova course, receiving a gold medal in each race. 9
MONTANA – USA
Vivienne Shockley
Billings, Montana
Vivienne, known as Vivi to her friends, is an amazing young woman who loves to travel, see new places, do new things and make new friends. She is constantly challenging herself. She loves LETR and works hard to raise awareness with people and let them know that it is more than just a run. Vivi also works hard at raising funds to support Special Olympics through LETR fundraisers. Ask Vivi about her power lifting and she will be off and going. Once Vivi has you as her friend, you will be a friend for life. Team 3
Final Leg Team Profiles 5
NEW ZEALAND
Thomas van der Lugt
Dunedin, Otago
Thomas delivers his one-hour live radio show weekly each Wednesday from 11am - 12pm. During his show he plays music, interviews guests from Special Olympics, athletes, coaches, volunteers, sports officials and generally spreads the word about Special Olympics in his community. His show is called Special Olympics with Thomas and he has attracted two sponsors for his show to help him to continue. It has been extremely well received in the wider community. He plays a mixture of music as he says he Team wants to appeal to a wide audience of different ages so there's a bit of blues, jazz, reggae and some new stuff, an even mix he 7 reckons will keep everyone happy.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA - AUSTRALIA
Lachlan Woollett
Adelaide, South Australia
Lachlan is passionate about learning about other cultures and has been since he was young. He loves making new friends. He always 'has a go' at things and enjoys a challenge. He is quite driven and doesn’t give up easily. Lachlan has obtained his SACE (South Australian Certificate of Education). His confidence has grown so much over the years, particularly from all his speeches about Special Olympics. Lachlan has been employed at the same company for last five years. Lachlan is involved in the local church, is a member of various clubs and the chair for one group. Team He adores basketball and is very keen on most sports. Lachlan loves to be part of a team in a sporting context, work or on a 1 committee.
Final Leg Team Profiles 6
NEW SOUTH WALES - AUSTRALIA
Darryal Abeyasekera
Detective Sergeant New South Wales Police Force
Darryal is a Police Officer with 23 years experience and is currently working in Sydney, Australia as a Detective Sergeant at the Joint Counter Terrorism Team. Darryal got involved with LETR about four years ago and has been actively involved since that time. Darryal is currently the Secretary of his LETR Program, and has been actively involved in obtaining major sponsors for fundraising events. Darryal enjoys most sports, bushwalking, camping, and anything outdoors. Darryal has been involved in many Torch Runs but one which stands out was at the announcement for the Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games to be held in Newcastle Australia in 2013. Darryal states that the time Team attending the various Torch Runs and getting to know the Special Olympic athletes is inspiring. Darryal also represented Australia as 9 a Guardian of the Flame at the 2011 Conference in Calgary.
NETHERLANDS
Jack Adriaensen
Mid West Brabant Police, Netherlands
Jack has served for over 30 years with the Dutch Police. Most recently he has worked at the Aliens Police as a Detective. Jack has been the Treasurer of Torch Run Netherlands for the past 5 years. LETR Netherlands organizes about six Torch Runs throughout the Netherlands each year. Police officers from throughout the Netherlands bring the flame of hope to the events organized by Special Olympics Netherlands. Jack is married and he and his wife Ingrid have five children. He is honored to Team represent the Netherlands Police on the World Winter Games in South Korea! 5
Final Leg Team Profiles 7
NORTH DAKOTA - USA
Kevin Arthaud
Administrator Bismarck Transition Centre, North Dakota
Kevin began his law enforcement career in 1978 as a Military Policeman in the U.S. Army. He became involved in Corrections in 1981 when employed with the North Dakota State Penitentiary. He has worked a variety of positions: Correctional Officer, Sergeant, and Night Shift Captain. In 1990, he was hired by the Bureau of Prisons and worked as a Correctional Officer, Human Resource Specialist and Assistant Human Resource Manager. Duty assignments included: FPC Yankton, SD, FCI Oxford, WI; FCI Pekin, IL and USP Leavenworth, KS. He returned to North Dakota in 1998, when he was hired as a Case Manager at the James River Correctional Center, Jamestown, ND. Kevin worked as the Team Chief of Security there from 1999 - 2010. He became the Administrator of the Bismarck Transition Center, in December 4 2010.
NORTHERN IRELAND - UK
Ewan Ballantine
Sergeant Police Service of Northern Ireland
Ewan has been a police officer for over 25 years. He is a Sergeant in the Police Service of Northern Ireland, currently serving in Omagh, County Tyrone. His role as a Community Safety Sergeant has afforded him the opportunity to work with persons with a disability. This ranged from organizing rural rambles, piloting a tandem cycle with partially sighted persons or organizing safety events to reinforce the 'Keep Safe' message. Ewan is married to Cheryl and they have two children; Ryan aged 14 and Jade aged 12 years. Ewan is a keen sportsman, Team participating in Triathlons and running events. Ewan is also a keen alpine skier, mountain biker, mountaineer and swimmer. 7
Final Leg Team Profiles 8
MANITOBA - CANADA
Matthew Bassett
Motor Carrier Enforcement Officer Manitoba Infrastructure & Transportation
Matthew Bassett has been a Motor Carrier Enforcement Officer for six years and is currently operational in the Winnipeg area. Matthew joined the LETR in October of 2011 and has been his department representative since that time. Shortly after joining the LETR, he became involved with the Worlds Largest Truck Convoy. During that time he was being groomed to take on the role of chairing the Committee and in 2012 he assumed this position. The Convoy is one of the largest fundraisers for Special Olympics in Manitoba. His proudest moment in Special Olympics was participating in a fundraising BBQ with Scotiabank on a cold and rainy day in May of 2011. During that rainy day, Matt learned Team first hand how important Special Olympics is to the local athletes and how proud they are to participate, especially when they’ve 2 got some medals to show off!
MASSACHUSETTS - USA
John Bassi
Crime Scene Investigator Pittsfield Police Department
John Bassi is a Crime Scene Investigator for the City of Pittsfield, MA and has been a police officer for fourteen years. Approximately three years ago he was asked to act as a liaison to the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. It was a very easy decision for him as he had already been involved in Special Olympic activities with his son Jake. John’s son is autistic and has some developmental disabilities; however, he is an active participant in several Special Olympics activities throughout the year. John says, Special Olympics has given his son opportunities in activities and helped him in promoting social skills that nobody Team could surpass. He can say from a “first-hand” point of view that Special Olympics has changed his son’s life and made him a 7 better person!
Final Leg Team Profiles 9
KANSAS - USA
Jeff Bragg
Sergeant Olathe Police Department
Jeff grew up in a small town – Oak Grove, Missouri. He is the son of John and Cheryl Bragg who taught him the importance of becoming involved in community and charitable events. Jeff began his law enforcement career in December of 1993 with the Olathe Police Department. There he has been a Field Training Officer, a Tactical Support Officer, Detective, and Sergeant. Jeff is currently the Sergeant of the Training and Personnel division. Jeff’s Law Enforcement Torch Run career began in 1995. Jeff has been a Department Coordinator, a County Coordinator, an Area Coordinator, and currently sits on the Executive Council of the Kansas LETR as the Metro Regional Coordinator. Jeff is married to Team his wife of 14 years, Kim. They have three beautiful children; Madison, Jacob, and Tyler. 2
EL SALVADOR
Javier Cabrera
Director Logistica LETR El Salvador Policia Nacional Civil El Salvador Javier is a person with a yearning of helping people in El Salvador, that’s why nine years ago he joined La Policia Nacional Civil of El Salvador. Currently he is part of the Law Enforcement Division of the Tourism Police Department in San Salvador. Inside the police activity, Javier got involved with the Torch Run when the first Latin-American Games of Special Olympics took place in El Salvador during 2006. The best moment of his life was witnessing the happiness and proud joy of the athletes participating in the Special Olympics when one of them delivered the Torch to President Antonio Saca. Javier is married to Team Magdalena, and has two children, Marcela and Marcos. He enjoys spending time with his family and friends and loves to travel 6 across the country with them. He is a family guy.
Final Leg Team Profiles 10
VIRGINIA - USA
Joseph Carroll
Corporal Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police
Joe has been with the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police for 18 years, and has been involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for 17 of those. Joe’s involvement with Special Olympics started 27 years ago volunteering at Summer Games. In 2010, Joe was presented with the Kenny Fields “Unsung Hero” Memorial Award from Special Olympics Virginia. Joe’s involvement with Special Olympics is more than just the Torch Run; he also does numerous fundraisers and volunteers at sporting events throughout the year. Joe’s favorite Torch Run memory is when a Special Olympics athlete remarked in his Team speech that a highlight of his life was coming out to the Tip-A- Cops and working with all of the officers at the restaurant. 9
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Jaehoon Choi
Inspector
Gyeonggi Provincial Police
Jaehoon has worked for the Gyeonggi Provincial Police Agency for 1 year and is attached to the Gyeonggi Provincial Mobile Police Riot Squad as an Inspector. He is 23 years of age, single and before joining the Police had travelled to more than 20 countries. He worked as a Liaison Officer in the International Police Liaison Center for the 2012 Nuclear Security Summit. He is presently studying International Relations at Yonsei Graduate School. He enjoys watching and playing most ball sports as well as running. He recently completed his first Marathon. Jaehoon is very excited about participating in the 2013 Final Leg. Team 4
Final Leg Team Profiles 11
SAMOA
Logoitino Filipo
Inspector
Samoa Ministry of Police & Prisons
Logoitino has been a sworn member of the Samoa Ministry of Police & Prisons for 14 years. He is currently an Inspector - Staff Officer to the Commissioner and also a Deputy Project Manager to the Samoa Australia Police Project. Inspector Filipo was leading a team of police officers to carry out the first ever Law Enforcement Torch Run that was held in Samoa in 2011 for Special Olympics Samoa, which was quite a success and lots of fond memories. He has now been selected as a board member to Special Olympics Samoa and has provided assistance to SOS ever since. He was delighted and honored for being selected to represent Samoa Police in the Final Leg in Korea. He continues to commit to serve Team and support Special Olympics Samoa as he strongly feels it contributes tremendously to his personal and career goals. 7
WASHINGTON - USA
Patty Finch
Patrol Officer Centralia Police Department
Patty was born and raised in the small city of Yelm, Washington where she graduated from Yelm High School in 2001. She attended and graduated from Saint Martin’s University in 2005, obtaining a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice. Patty started her law enforcement career with the Washington State Department of Corrections as a Probation Officer in 2004 and was hired with the Yelm Police Department in 2007 as a Police Officer. She met her husband, Bryent at the Police Academy in 2007 and fell in love very quickly. They married in 2009 and their children consist of four furry friends; Ford, Thor, Belle and Shelby (children may Team come after Korea). She transferred to the Centralia Police Department in 2009, where she works as a Patrol Officer, 1 Domestic Violence Instructor and Public Information Officer.
Final Leg Team Profiles 12
MICHIGAN - USA
John Gates
Deputy Sheriff Hillsdale County Sheriff’s Office
John Gates is a 38 year old, 12 year Sheriff's Deputy with the Hillsdale County Sheriff's Office in Hillsdale, MI, USA. He is a member of the CSU, Underwater Search and Recovery Team, Honor Guard and our now disbanded Motor Unit. John loves being a cop and he is a third generation police officer. He lives in Jackson, MI with his girlfriend and their 3 dogs. Torch Run is one of his greatest joys in life and he loves the opportunities to interact with the athletes, their families and other members of Law Team Enforcement. Outside of Torch Run, he loves to spend time on his Harley. 8
AUSTRIA
Markus Gloessl
Police Officer Austrian Police Markus has been a police officer since 1975 and teacher in the police academy since 1994. In 1995 Police Officer Adi Reiter, founder of the Initiative Law Enforcement Torch Run in Austria, motivated him to contribute to the realization of the Torch Run for the opening of the Austrian Special Olympic Winter Games in Landeck, Tyrol. The incredible fascination of the athletes fascinated him so much that he helped with fundraising projects and joined several National and International Torch Runs. The highlights for Markus were the attendance in the Final Legs in Alaska 2001, Ireland 2003 and Idaho 2009. The biggest challenge was the organization of the Torch Run for the 3rd Team Austrian Special Olympics Winter Games in Innsbruck in January 2008. Together with 65 students of the Police Academy and 4 seven Athletes, it was an amazing Torch Run!
Final Leg Team Profiles 13
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Seogbeom Go
Assistant Inspector
Jeju Provincial Police Agency
Seogbeom has worked for the Jeju Provincial Police Agency for over 13 years and is currently stationed at the Jeju-donbu Police Station. He is 41 years of age, married with three sons, aged 7, 4 and 1. He considers himself an extrovert and liberal and enjoys playing many sports including football, swimming , marathons and badminton.
Team
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GIBRALTAR
Clayton Gomez
Assistant Customs Officer HM Customs Clayton has been a HM Customs Officer for the past 14 years and has been involved with Gibraltar’s Law Enforcement Torch Run since 1997. Clayton is proud to belong to the oldest Law Enforcement Torch Run program in Europe. As an active Torch Run Committee member he is of the opinion that creating awareness and fundraising is of paramount importance, to which the local Enforcement Torch Run agencies gives 110% year after year. Clayton has always admired the camaraderie shown amongst these athletes and his most memorable Torch Run event was carrying the Flame of Hope at the Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg, for the Special Olympics European Youth Games in Team Rome in 2006. Clayton enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter. His hobbies include weight training and 1 mountaineering.
Final Leg Team Profiles 14
GEORGIA - USA
Billy Grogan
Chief of Police Dunwoody Police Department
Billy Grogan became the first ever Chief of Police for the new City of Dunwoody on December 17, 2008. Chief Grogan believes strongly that serving the community is a calling. Chief Grogan began serving on the Law Enforcement Torch Run Executive Council for Georgia in 2003 after an athlete made a memorable presentation at a luncheon. While at his previous department, Chief Grogan served as the department coordinator and helped the department raise over $250,000 in five years. In addition, Chief Grogan served as the LETR Director for Georgia from 2008- 2011. Chief Grogan was named LETR Rookie of the Year and was Team inducted into the Georgia LETR Hall of Fame in 2011. One of Chief Grogan’s fondest memories is when an athlete presented him a 5 gold medal he had recently earned.
LOUISIANA - USA
Ninoska Guggenheim
Police Officer Kenner Police Department
Ninoska Guggenheim has been a member of the Kenner Police Department for nine years. She is currently assigned to the Crime Prevention/Community Relations Section. She enjoys traveling, shopping and playing sports. Ninoska is an active volunteer with Special Olympics Louisiana, volunteering in multiple fundraisers such as SOL Bowl and Over the Edge. Ninoska is married to Rodney and has one child Collin. One of her favorite Torch Run memories occurred during the Opening Ceremony of the 2011 Louisiana Summer Games when she was overwhelmed with emotions as over 400 athletes entered the stadium. It reinforced Team her drive and dedication to our athletes even more.
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Final Leg Team Profiles 15
POLAND
Jacek Hachulski
Senior Lecturer Police Training Center
Jacek has been involved with the LETR for the past 20 years and is presently a member of the Torch Run Executive Council representing Europe/Eurasia. Jacek is a Final Leg veteran and was an inductee into the Richard LaMunyon Law Enforcement Torch Run Hall of Fame in 2000. Jacek first represented Poland in the 1993 Final Leg in Shladming, Austria and still cherishes meeting the Polish Special Olympics Athletes during the Opening Ceremonies of those Games. Jacek continues his involvement with athletes, which lets him feel useful and needed by someone outside of his family. He believes it is our duty to protect and Team assist people particularly those in need. That is why he became a police officer and a member of the Torch Run family. 3
DELAWARE - USA
Danny Hall
Lieutenant Delaware State Police
Daniel (Danny) Hall has been a member of the Delaware State Police for the past twenty two years. He has participated in the Law Enforcement Torch Run in each of his years of service. Danny has served as a coach to Special Olympic athletes for swimming, track and field, and long distance running. He has also served as a volunteer for numerous Special Olympic Delaware activities/functions. Danny regularly participates in the Polar Bear Plunge and 5k run, Dodgeball Madness, Ride to the Tide, DSTA Golf Classic, Summer Games, Truck Convoy, Plane Pull, and the Fall Festival. He was honored as Delaware’s Law Enforcement Torch Runner of the Year in 1995. Danny currently sits on the Team Delaware Law Enforcement Torch Run Executive Committee and is honored representing Delaware as the 2013 LETR Final Leg 10 runner.
Final Leg Team Profiles 16
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA - USA
Scott Hamilton
Police Officer San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit Police Scott Hamilton has been with the BART Police for 15 years and is currently a canine handler with his partner Jo-Jo, a seven year old German Shepard from the Czech Republic. Scott became involved in the Torch Run in 1999 when he volunteered at a Tip a Cop. Scott received the Officer of the Year title in 2008 for his involvement in Special Olympics. In 2009 Scott was elected to the Executive Committee for the Northern California Torch Run and served as Assistant Director since 2011. When asked about his most memorable Special Olympic moment, Scott will tell you “Every interaction with the athletes!” Scott’s family also enjoys participating in Torch Run fundraising events and the Special Team Olympics Summer Games. When not volunteering, Scott works on remodeling projects or takes his snowmobile for a ride in the 8 Sierra Nevada Mountains.
SOUTH DAKOTA - USA
Lisa Hardison
Communications Training Officer Sioux Falls Police Department
Lisa started volunteering with Special Olympics twenty years ago while in high school. When she became a Police Reserve Officer, she had the opportunity to run the local Torch Run in 2005. Lisa always had the dream to run the full state and that came true for her last year when she was able to represent Sioux Falls Police Department and Metro Communications Agency. She has been a 911 Dispatcher for more than six years with Metro, dispatching for Minnehaha County and is currently a Communications Training Officer. She is the second generation in her family to be in Public Safety. With her husband Nathan, she has been blessed with five Team wonderful children. They enjoy running together as a family and spending time with their three dogs. She also enjoys reading, 3 artwork and photography.
Final Leg Team Profiles 17
NEW ZEALAND
Stew Hewett
Constable
New Zealand Police
Stewart joined the New Zealand Police in 1993 after many years working in the agricultural sector. He is a Police Constable, based in the town of Oamaru on the South Island, performing General Duties and Search and Rescue. Stewart's daughter Katrina has Downs Syndrome and is an active participant in Special Olympics. She has represented New Zealand in the 2003 World Summer Games as a swimmer and will be part of the New Zealand team in Korea as an Alpine Skier. Stewart has been involved with Special Olympics for the past 21 years as a volunteer and coach of Bocce, Swimming and Alpine Skiing. He was the Head of Delegation of the New Zealand team at the 2001 World Winter Team Games in Alaska and the 2009 World Winter Games in Idaho. Stewart is a member of the Board of Trustees of Special Olympics 1 New Zealand and the Chairperson of the North Otago branch.
MONTANA - USA
Mark Horner
Sergeant Missoula Police Department
Mark Horner has been a Police Officer for over 27 years and is currently working as the Sergeant of the Plans Unit. Mark got involved in the Torch Run in the late 80's when asked to run a leg. Since then he has gotten involved in the Grizzly Dip (polar plunge), Tip-a-Cop and local area games. He currently serves as Leg Leader, helps organize the Grizzly Dip, Tip-a-Cop and helps organize officers to work the local games. His most memorable account to Special Olympics was receiving the Unsung Hero Award at the 2012 kick-off conference. He currently lives in Missoula Team with his wife Lori. They have two grown sons, Taylor and Micah. He enjoys golf and weight training. 4
Final Leg Team Profiles 18
CONNECTICUT - USA
Peter Howard
Sergeant Monroe Police Department
Peter has been a Police Officer for 17 years and a Sergeant for the past 6 years. Pete got involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics right at the beginning of his police career and has been an active supporter of not only the Torch Run but coordinating several Tip a Cop fundraisers as well. In 2010 he directed the first winter plunge at the park. He attended the International Conference held in Alberta, Canada in 2011. He currently lives in Monroe, Connecticut with his wife, Christine, and three children, Christopher, Max and Tess. Pete enjoys boating and fishing along the Long Island Sound. Team
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NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
Robert Howard
Sergeant Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
Robert was born and raised in St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada. He has been a Police Officer for 28 years and is currently a Sergeant working in the Criminal Investigations Division. Prior to joining the Police, he worked as an Electrician. Robert has worked in many areas of Police work including Major Crime and Child Abuse/Sexual Assault Unit. This will be his fourth World Games Final Leg. He enjoys running and ice hockey. Robert has five children including a step-daughter and step-son. He says that he gets great enjoyment from being there when the Team athletes perform in their sports and regardless how they finish they never have a sad look on their faces. They are all champions 4 to him and he has been so lucky to meet so many of them.
Final Leg Team Profiles 19
NORTH WEST TERRITORIES
Warren Hudym
Constable Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Warren has been a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for five years. He is currently posted as a general duty Constable with the Yellowknife RCMP Detachment in the Northwest Territories (NWT), Canada. Throughout his service with the RCMP, Warren has been involved with the LETR as a volunteer and support person. In 2011 Warren joined the NWT LETR Committee and introduced a new fundraising event for 2012. He has assisted with airplane pulls, polar plunges and other activities which have raised funds for Special Olympics NWT, allowing them to expand their programs to include more athletes. Warren’s most Team memorable LETR moment was carrying the Flame of Hope for the first time with a Special Olympics athlete during the 2011 Final 5 Leg in Greece.
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Seokjung Jin
Assistant Inspector
Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency
Seokjung has worked for the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency for over 12 years and is currently the Chief of Tactical Training. He is 35 years old and was married in September 2011. He is interested in assisting people with disabilities and enjoys doing volunteer work. He believes that he will remain a police officer until retirement and hopes to live a happy life with his family.
Team
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Final Leg Team Profiles 20
RHODE ISLAND - USA
Elwood Johnson
Chief of Police Richmond Police Department Elwood currently serves as the Chief of Police for the Town of Richmond, after 24 years with the Rhode Island State Police. Elwood has been involved with Special Olympics RI since 1990, when he began as a volunteer presenter for the medal award ceremonies as the annual State Summer Games. Since that time, Elwood's appreciation and involvement has been self-evident, as he invests fully of himself to educate others on the benefits of the Special Olympics program in his role as the co-director of the Torch Run committee. Elwood and his wife, Melissa, have 4 beautiful children, Mariah, Macie, Ethan, and Margo, who have volunteered and/or attended Special Olympics and Torch Run events with their father over the years. Elwood credits all of his Team peers in the Torch Run program for building on successes they have achieved in the last 12 years in raising awareness and funds 1 for this outstanding program.
IDAHO - USA
Jacob Johnson
Patrol Deputy Bingham County Sheriff Office
Jake has been in law enforcement for 16 years, the past nine years of that being with the Bingham County Sheriffs Office. He is currently in the patrol division and is respected by fellow officers in his surrounding agencies, city and county officials, and the community in which he serves. In his off time he enjoys fishing with his kids and hunting. Jake started with Special Olympics events a few years ago when he was a patrol officer with the Blackfoot Police Department doing Cops and Lobsters in Pocatello. In 2009 Jake was selected to help plan and organize the Final Leg for the Special Olympics Winter World Games that Team were held in Idaho. He has been hooked ever since, and enjoys working for the athletes and with other law enforcement agencies 4 around the world.
Final Leg Team Profiles 21
WYOMING - USA
Zachary Johnson
Patrol Officer Cheyenne Police Department
Zack Johnson has been a police officer for 6 years. He currently lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming with his wife Sarah. Zack has been involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run since 2007. Aside from being a patrol officer, Zack is also a bomb technician and graduated from the FBI's Hazardous Devices School in April of 2011. He has been involved in many events for Special Olympics, including fundraising events and the Opening Ceremonies for the Wyoming State Games. Zack says that he experiences life- changing moments every time he is involved in an event for Special Olympics. His favorite moments always involve seeing the Team athletes during the opening ceremonies each year. "Seeing the expressions of joy on the athlete's faces makes it obvious that 4 you have made a difference," says Zack
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Sungbae Jung
Patrol Officer
Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency
Sungbae Jung has worked for the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency for 6 years and currently works as a Patrol Officer at the Youngdeungpo Police Station. He is 30 years old and is single. He says that he is still looking for his perfect job. Prior to joining the Police, Sungbae served for two years with the Army.
Team
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Final Leg Team Profiles 22
GREECE
Alexandros Kappis
Major (Retired)
Hellenic National Police Alex has just recently retired from Hellenic (Greek) National Police after 27 years of service, and now is in the Force Reserve List. The last few years he served in the Dept. of Informatics in Athens, as a Computer Systems Programmer. In the past, he had the opportunity to participate in Final Leg events in 2003 (Dublin), 2006 (Rome), 2007 (Shanghai), 2009 (Idaho), 2010 (Warsaw) and 2011 (Athens) in various roles. He considers himself very fortunate for having experienced these life-time events and he is looking forward to the Korean Final Leg. Still a single man, he has Team strong bonds with his family and in his leisure time he undertakes sports such as mountain biking, snowboarding and skiing, He 10 loves to travel and he enjoys reading and studying.
MISSOURI - USA
Rita Ketchem
Administrative Assistant St Joseph Police Department
Rita has been involved with the LETR for Special Olympics for 17 years. She is the Administrative Assistant to the Chief working with the St. Joseph Police Department for the past 17 years. Rita was presented with the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year in 2007. In 2007 she became a member of the LETR committee for Missouri and shortly thereafter was appointed as the Assistant TR Director for Region I. She lives in St. Joseph with her husband Richard who is a Sergeant at the St. Joseph Police Department. She enjoys running, hiking, reading, flower gardening and spending time outdoors. Her favorite Torch Run memory is when she was chosen to run the torch in for the Summer Games in Team 2005. She said it was the most humbling experience in her career with Special Olympics. 4
Final Leg Team Profiles 23
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Seonho Kim
Inspector
Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency
Seonho Kim has been with the Seoul Metropolitan Police for more than 30 years. He is 53 years old, married to an excellent cook with two sons and a daughter. He enjoys jogging and walking along mountain tracks. He is currently working on the investigation of intellectual crimes in the Seoul area. He has travelled to the USA to attending training at the National Intelligence Academy in Florida.
Team
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WISCONSIN - USA
Sara Knapp
Patrol Officer Hortonville Police Department
Sara grew up in a small village of less than 1000 people. The school she attended was only a few blocks from her house, the elementary school , middle school, and high school were all in one large building. After graduating from high school, she went to Technical College for Police Science. Before she graduated from technical school Sara was hired for the Village of Hortonville as a patrol officer and has been working there for almost 15 years. Recently she completed Bachelors Degree for Criminal Justice Management. She enjoys Horseback Riding, Fishing, Team Photography, Boating, Biking, Swimming, Baking and Traveling.
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Final Leg Team Profiles 24
HAWAII - USA
Nicholas Krau
Sergeant Maui County Police Department
Nick Krau is 33 years old, born and raised on the island of Maui, in the State of Hawaii. He is a single father of 3 awesome sons ages 5, 4, and 2 years old. Nick has been employed with the Maui County Police Department for 12 years and is currently a Sergeant with the Communications Section. He has coached Special Olympics T-Ball and Soccer, and has volunteered for the annual Cop on Top fundraiser for the past 7 years. He enjoys hiking, church, traveling and ocean and water activities.
Team
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SOUTH AUSTRALIA - AUSTRALIA
Joanna Kruk
Senior Constable 1/c South Australia Police
Joanna has been a Police Officer for 9 years and is currently working as a Police Prosecutor in Elizabeth. While in high school, she was a 2 time Junior World Champion in Taekwondo (Argentina 2002 and South Korea 2004). Joanna also has won National and State titles in Brazillian Ju Jitsu and Boxing. In 2010 while training for the womens world championships in amateur boxing she was hit by a car on my bike and sustained a shoulder injury. As a result she had to put boxing on halt and started running. Joanna competed in her first marathon in June 2011 and she has now progressed to Ultra-Marathons. She has been involved with her Team local LETR program for the past two years and used the opportunity while participating in an Ultra-Marathon in Namibia to 5 raise over $6000 for Special Olympics.
Final Leg Team Profiles 25
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Jeonghyun Kwon
Police Officer
Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency
Jeonghyun Kwon is 29 years old and joined the Seoul Metropolitan Police in 2012 following study at University in mechanical engineering. He is single and has one brother who is a Sergeant in the Army. He enjoys watching movies.
Team
6
HONG KONG
Chihung Lai
Principal Immigration Officer
Hong Kong Immigration Department
Chihung has been working in the Immigration Department for over 32 years. He is the Division Head taking care of the work relating to identity cards, permanent residency and assistance to Hong Kong residents in distress outside Hong Kong. He got involved with the first Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics in Hong Kong (HKLETR) at Tsimshatsui, the waterfront of the Victoria Harbour in the early 1990s. He has assisted in many fund raising events over the years and actively participated in the annual HKLETR even when the route has changed to Shatin in the New Territories. He is married with two children. He loves sports Team and enjoys music. He enjoys playing basketball and running. His favorite Torch Run memory is having the honor to be the Torch 8 Runner for the Immigration Department in the HKLETA in 2010.
Final Leg Team Profiles 26
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA - USA
Eric Ledesma
Commander Long Beach Police Department
Eric Ledesma has worked for the Long Beach Police Department for the past 22 years and currently leads the Detectives Division. His involvement with the Law Enforcement Torch Run began early in his law enforcement career. Eric has assisted in many different fundraising events for Special Olympics, but he especially enjoys spending time with the athletes and cheering them on. Eric has one son and two beautiful daughters. His time spent with them includes instilling the value of giving back to their community. His children are at his side at all community events and they enjoy handing out medals at the end of the day. Eric’s favorite Torch Run memory is of his son running the nine-mile course through Team the city and seeing the joy on his face holding the torch with the athlete during the run. 1
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Hoshin Lee
Police Officer
Chungnam Provincial Police Agency
Hoshin Lee is 40 years old and has been a police officer for 8 years. He currently works as a Senior Police Officer at the Cheanandongnam Police Station. Prior to joining the Police, he was a member of the Special Forces. He is married with five year old twins (a boy and girl).
Team
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Final Leg Team Profiles 27
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Seunghwan Lee
Inspector
Korea National Police Agency
Seunghwan Lee is 30 years and has been a member of the Korea National Police for 3 years. He works at the Intelligence Division in Hanam City. He is married with one child. He enjoys dynamic activities such as swimming and is looking forward to meeting people from around the world during the Final Leg.
Team
9
IOWA - USA
Michelle Leonard
Chief of Police Dallas Center Police Department
Michelle grew up in a small town in southern Iowa and was raised by two very loving Grandparents. She played in sports throughout her school years and sang in choir. Michelle obtained a degree in Criminal Justice. She has three biological children and two step children all of whom she is very proud of and has two grandchildren and one on the way. Michelle has spent the last 18 years of her life in law enforcement, starting out as a Police Officer then went to a County Deputy position before taking the current position of Chief. She is very proud of the fact she never Team lost sight of her purpose, which is to serve others. It has not always been easy but it will always be right. 6
Final Leg Team Profiles 28
CHINESE TAIPEI
John Lin
Section Assistant
National Police Agency
John comes from Chinese Taipei. He is 36 years old and has been a police officer for 13 years. He used to be a traffic policeman in Taipei City. John currently serves as a section assistant in the Public Relations office of the National Police Agency. He is also the police liaison with SOCT (Special Olympics Chinese Taipei). He helps promote Torch Run activities and fundraising campaigns enthusiastically. He had attended the 2009 LETR international conference in Connecticut and 2011 Final Leg in Greece. Those experiences inspired him deeply and give him many precious memories. John is married with two children. John has a wide range of hobbies, such as jogging, biking, mountain hiking, Team reading and traveling overseas. His characteristic is active, optimistic and humorous and he is friendly and always feels happy 6 to help others.
MAINE - USA
John Lizanecz
Patrol Officer York Police Department
John has over 23 years police service and has worked with the York PD for the past 16 years. He is an EMT, a certified Instructor, Motor Officer, Advanced Open Water Diver, Advanced Rescue Swimmer, Crisis Negotiator, and Critical Incident Stress Management Case Worker. John teaches courses in Patrol Techniques, Crisis Conflict Management, MT Bike Patrol, and is the Lead ESMD Instructor for the State of Maine. In 1997, John received the Bravery by a Law Enforcement Officer Award from the Maine Chief’s and Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award. Team He holds a Associate’s Degree from S.M.T.C. and a Bachelors Degree from USM. John is married with four children. 3
Final Leg Team Profiles 29
FLORIDA - USA
Keith Luce
Detective Leon County Sheriff’s Office Keith is a Detective with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office in Tallahassee, where he has been employed since 1993. His involvement with LETR began in 1997 when he ran in his first local Torch Run. Since then, he has been instrumental in his agency’s efforts for Special Olympics Florida. He has served as Agency Coordinator, County Coordinator, worked at Cops and Lobster events, and started their newest fundraiser, the “Capital City Dodgeball Tournament”. These efforts result in over $20,000 in fundraising every year. Keith is also part of the team that organizes the “Capitol Ceremony”, an event attended by members of Florida’s Cabinet, Legislature, law enforcement dignitaries and heads of agencies, which serves as the ceremonial start of Team Florida’s Torch Run. Keith and his wife Christie have twin boys, Carson and Dillon. He enjoys hunting, motorcycle riding, and time 6 with family.
MARYLAND - USA
Erik Lynn
Sergeant Laurel Police Department Erik has been a Police Officer in Laurel, Maryland for 9 years. He has been involved with Special Olympics for the past 7 years. Erik's involvement with Special Olympics started with his local Torch Run in Maryland and he has been hooked ever since. Erik volunteers at numerous fundraisers throughout the year and regularly attends competitions to award medals to athletes. His most memorable moment with Special Olympics is the first time he awarded a medal to an athlete at the Winter Games. His hobbies include running half and full marathons and cycling. He also loves watching his favorite baseball team, the Baltimore Orioles at Team Camden Yards. The thing Erik enjoys the most is spending time with his family in his hometown of Danville, Pennsylvania or 2 spending time at the beach with friends.
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NOVA SCOTIA - CANADA
Mark Mander
Chief of Police Kentville Police Service Mark was born and raised in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Mark started policing with Calgary City Police and was involved in the 1988 Winter Olympic Games. He is now the Chief of Police for the Kentville Police Service, in Nova Scotia. He enjoys coaching soccer, running, cycling and family time. Mark is the current President of the Nova Scotia Chiefs of Police Association and serves on justice related committees on a provincial and national level. He views his time spent with LETR activities as the most rewarding. Besides local and provincial involvement he recently participated in the Canadian LETR Final Leg. He believes that being present to feel and experience the pure “joy” shown by Team Special Olympics athletes, coaches, volunteers and families during the games is something he wishes everyone could experience as 7 it is truly a life changing event.
CZECH REPUBLIC
Petr Matlach
Security Officer
Koordinace BOZP
Petr has been working with the Czech Police for the past eighteen years and is currently a Security Officer with Koordinace BOZP in Chomutov City, North Bohemia about 100 km north of Prague. He has been involved with Torch Run for over 5 years and took part in the 2009 Final Leg in Idaho. He is married with one daughter and enjoys skiing, cycling, roller skating and traveling.
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OREGON - USA
Marsha McCorkhill
Captain Coffee Creek Correctional Institute Born in Lebanon, Oregon to parents who worked in the plywood industry. Marsha graduated Lebanon High School in 1977. She married in 1980, has 3 children, one who is autistic and a big part of the reason for being involved in Special Olympics. Marsha started working for the Oregon Department of Corrections in 1990 and is currently assigned as the Special Population Captain with responsibilities for the management of behaviorally and mentally challenged individuals. She became involved as a coach for Oregon SO to help meet the local need for expansion of the Team winter bowling program and spring/summer track. Marsha has supported Law Enforcement Torch Run for the past 12 years. 7
VICTORIA - AUSTRALIA
Dean McGowan
Inspector Victoria Police Although 23 years is a long time in policing, Dean truly believes that he still hasn’t achieved his proudest moment yet. He is proud to work with the Victoria Police and looks forward to the challenges ahead. He is currently in training to walk the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea with 16 local youths and 16 sponsors, tackling the 3rd hardest walking track in the world. From a policing perspective, he has been an operational police officer for the entirety of his career including stints with specialist support areas that involved protection of important dignitaries. He is an Inspector of Police in charge of 120 staff at two metropolitan Police Stations in Melbourne. He has been involved with LETR Team Victoria for the past two years and is looking forward to the Final Leg in South Korea. 3
Final Leg Team Profiles 32
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND
Hilda Moloney
Constable An Garda Síochána
Hilda Moloney has been a member of An Garda Siochana for 9 years and is presently working in Killaloe, a beautiful, picturesque village in County Clare. She previously worked in Ballyfermot, Dublin and in Ennis. She became involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run in 2007 due to her sister, Michaela Moloney's involvement in the organizing of the Law Enforcement Torch Run before the Irish team travelled to compete in Beijing. In 2010 Hilda was involved in the team that ran the Southern Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run leading up the All Ireland Special Team Olympics and her proudest moment was marching into Thomond Park in her Garda uniform during the Opening Ceremony. She 10 enjoys running, cycling and swimming.
NEW HAMPSHIRE - USA
Mike Murray
School Resource Officer Merrimack Police Department
Mike served as a patrol officer for twelve years and then was assigned to Merrimack High School as the School Resource Officer. At the high school he coached ice hockey and soccer. During his career he became involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run when his Chief was looking for runners to participate in the Merrimack Leg of the Torch Run. Soon after, he took over as the Merrimack Leg Leader and now holds the position of South Central Regional Coordinator of the New Hampshire Law Enforcement Torch Run. Mike includes as many as 80 high school students in the Merrimack Leg of the Torch Run each year to expand awareness in the community. Mike believes he has Team received back much more than he has put into Special Olympics. "It's the best police therapy there is." Off the job Mike enjoys 7 playing ice hockey and watching car racing.
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NEW YORK - USA
Steve Nigrelli
Captain New York State Police
Steve is a 22 year veteran of the New York State Police and is currently assigned as a Captain overseeing the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Steve first carried the Flame of Hope in 1994 and has been a Torch Runner ever since. Steve is the New York State LETR Director after having served for several years as a Regional Director. Since joining the NYS LETR family, Steve has organized and volunteered at dozens of LETR events in New York State, including; Chairman of Polar Plunge, Chairman of “Law and Orders”, Coordinator of Western New York Torch Run legs and serves on an “Over The Edge” Committee. Steve was humbled Team and honored to be selected for the Final Leg and is extremely proud to represent all the fine New York Law Enforcement Officers 6 who work so hard to raise funds and awareness for our athletes.
ALASKA - USA
Karen Och
Police Officer Anchorage Police Department
Karen was born in San Jose, California. Her family moved all over California and then spent a year in Australia. Karen joined the Army in 1979 and there started her career in law enforcement. She transferred to Hawaii in 1987 and became a police officer for the Department of Defense. In 1990 Karen joined the Fayetteville Police Department, where she became a motorcycle officer. Karen stayed with the Fayetteville PD until 1996 then moved to Anchorage, Alaska where she worked in private security until she joined the Anchorage Police Department in 1998.
Team
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Final Leg Team Profiles 34
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Wondon Park
Inspector
Busan Metropolitan Police Agency
Wondon Park is 45 years old and has been with the Busan Metropolitan Police Agency for over 22 years. His current role is the Criminal Investigations Manager at Geumjeong Police Station. Wondon is married and has one daughter. His hobbies include playing soccer, reading books, watching movies and learning English.
Team 10
ONTARIO - CANADA
Joanne Pendrak
Sergeant Greater Sudbury Police Service
Joanne Pendrak has been a police officer for 28 years and held the rank of Sergeant for the past 17 years. Her career has taken her through many avenues including being a member of the Tactical Team, the Drug Unit, Criminal Investigations, Sergeant in Charge of the Training Branch and the Domestic Violence Unit. Sergeant Pendrak is presently working as a patrol supervisor. She has been involved with the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run for over 20 years, starting as a runner at the grass roots level and and recently being appointed to the position of the Director of the Ontario Law Enforcement Torch Run program. She is Team happily married to her husband Brian of 26 years and has the most wonderful son, William who is attending the University of 6 Waterloo.
Final Leg Team Profiles 35
OHIO - USA
Kay Perkins
Sergeant Ohio State Highway Patrol Kay has been a State Trooper for 21 years and is currently working out of the Zanesville Patrol Post. She is also a firearms Range Officer for the Division. Kay became involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run in 1996 at the urging of the late Trooper Larry Bunting. Kay has said; "I had no idea what the Torch Run was all about, but that quickly changed." She has participated in the Polar Bear Plunge into Lake Erie since it started 16 years ago and is working on starting a plunge event of her own. She is the Leg Leader of the Marietta to Columbus route into the Opening Ceremonies for Ohio's Summer Games. Kay lives in Pleasant City and enjoys the outdoors by hiking, camping and fishing. Her Team favorite Torch Run memory is the first time she ran into the OSU Horseshoe Stadium for the Opening ceremonies of the Summer 9 Games.
CYPRUS
Panayiotis Polyviou
Police Officer Cyprus Police Panayiotis is 46 years of age and has been a police officer for 20 years and is currently working in CID information office. In 2006 he visited Poland to participate in the Special Olympics Polish Summer Games where he gained so much pleasure helping the children with special needs. Panayiotis proudest moment in the police force was when he awarded with the Florinio Medal for his commitment to the community. As the Special Olympics World Summer Games were held in Greece 2011, Cyprus was the hospitality country for eight other countries before the Games commenced. Panayiotis was a guide to assist the children to have an enjoyable time before they moved on to Greece. He has one Team son, 18 years old who is currently in the Cyprus Military. Running, swimming and football are his hobbies when not at work. 10
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QUEBEC - CANADA
Marc Ratte
Sergeant Service de police de la Ville de Montreal
Marc is 49 years old, married with two sons, both in college. He has been with the Montreal Police Department (Service de police de la Ville de Montreal) for 21 years. He did 20 years on patrol in different districts on the island of Montreal. He became involved in the Torch Run in 2005 and has participated in various Torch Run fundraisers such as car washes, Worlds Largest Truck Convoy, Halloween Haunted House and Cops on Top. He says that he enjoys meeting fellow officers involved in Special Olympics and the athletes. Team
10
INDIANA - USA
James Reno
Captain Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
Jim has been with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department for 36 years and currently holds the position of Captain, Homeland Security Bureau / Tactical Section. He is married and has three daughters and two grandchildren. He has been involved with Torch Run for over 20 years and is the Indiana LETR State Director and a member of the LETR Executive Committee (Region IV Coordinator). He enjoys backpacking, hiking and reading military history. Team 5
Final Leg Team Profiles 37
MINNESOTA - USA
Nicole Reno
Patrol Officer Moorhead Police Department Nicole has been a Patrol Officer with the City of Moorhead for six years. During her first year, the “torch was passed” to her and she has been involved in the Law Enforcement Torch Run ever since. She is the leader of their Final Leg and her department’s Torch Run coordinator. Her favorite Torch Run memory was doing medal presentations at the Minnesota Summer Games for the first time where she got to see high school classmates and really see the joy and pride of the athletes. The athletes forever changed her outlook on the Torch Run and how law enforcement can give back to the community. Nicole is married to Craig, the mother of Team two beautiful children, Thomas (4 years) and Lillian (2 years) and lives in Dilworth, Minnesota. She enjoys photography, 10 scrapbooking, and spending time with her family.
SOUTH CAROLINA - USA
Marcus Rhodes
School Resource Officer Horry County Police Department Marcus Rhodes is a School Resource Officer with the Horry County Police, in South Carolina. He has 22 years law enforcement experience and has been involved in the LETR for 19 years. Marcus is married to Barbara, a teacher. He has three daughters; Anna, Rebecca, and Haley. Marcus’ hobbies include traveling, hiking, reading, and seeking out great restaurants. Among his most rewarding hobbies, though, is the time he spends with LETR and Special Olympics. The athletes provide endless motivation and inspiration. Marcus has served on the SC Torch Run Council for over ten years. He currently serves as the Director of a local Polar Plunge. He is on the Steering Committee for Area 16 of Team SOSC. He and Barbara were recently certified as Global Messenger coaches and are excited about helping athletes 3 spread the Special Olympics message.
Final Leg Team Profiles 38
PENNSYLVANIA - USA
Scott Schubert
Commander Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Scott Schubert is a 19-year veteran of the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Scott became involved with the Torch Run in early 2010 and has been actively involved with the athletes and program ever since. He was a lead coordinator and participant in the Pittsburgh Polar Plunge at Heinz Field, Pittsburgh Super Plunge at PNC Park, 150 mile Be A Fan Torch Run, Tip A Cop, and many other local and regional activities. In November 2011, Scott was named Assistant Torch Run Director of Pennsylvania. Scott enjoys interacting with the athletes, awarding medals at various events and playing scrimmage basketball against Special Olympics Team teams. Scott is married to Lynn and has two children Alex and Haley. He enjoys family time, running, teaching and walking his 6 dog, Cinnamon
NEW JERSEY - USA
James Sepp
Captain Bogota Police Department James is a 22 year veteran of the Bogota Police Department. He started his career in Seaside Heights Police Department in New Jersey. He then moved on to the Bogota Police Department. During his time in Bogota, he served in Patrol, the Detective Bureau, and then as a Sergeant and later as a Captain. During his service he attended college and attained a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and later went on to get a Master's Degree in Administration. He then returned to school to get Masters' Certificates in Computer Forensic Administration and Law and Public Safety. James has been involved with Torch Run for 16 Team years. He is married to Kelly and they have three children. 3
Final Leg Team Profiles 39
ARKANSAS - USA
Jan Simonetti
Corporal Arkansas State Police
Jan Simonetti has been a police officer for 26 years and has been with Arkasnas State Police for 24 years. She has been involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics for 24 years. She has hosted several fundraising events and has been awarded top fundraiser for Arkansas Special Olympics several years. In 2012, Janice was inducted to Arkansas Special Olympics Hall of Fame. Jan is married to Bryan and together they have two sons; Michael who is 30 and currently a W2 in the United States Team Army stationed in White Sands, New Mexico, and Robby who is attending Mid South Community College. Jan's favorite Torch Run 1 memory is running the Final Leg for the Arkansas Summer Games.
TURKEY
Orhan Sinav
Personnel Manager
Turkish National Police Orhan has been a member of the Istanbul Police Department for 16 years. His involvement with the Torch Run began 8 years ago. Orhan is an active volunteer who works hard promoting the Torch Run in his country. He also participates in other organizations in Istanbul that assist individuals with intellectual disabilities. Orhan has the nickname of ‘smiling man’ in the Torch Run family. In addition to this he also has the nickname as ‘the President’ after the personal meeting with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on the last European Torch Run activity. He has two Team master’s degree, he is humble and is “full of beans”. He is married and he has two children, Serra and Hakan. 5
Final Leg Team Profiles 40
ALABAMA - USA
Rex Sorrow
Deputy Cullman County Sheriff’s Office Rex is 48 years old and is the father of two beautiful daughters Cailyn and Christen. He has worked in law enforcement for 21 years and is a member of the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office S.W.A.T. Team and works with the youth at Good Hope Schools as a School Resource Officer where he teaches the DARE program and other law related classes. Rex enjoys spending time with his two daughters as well as attending church, working out at the gym, long distance running, event cycling, swimming and playing golf occasionally. Team 8
ARIZONA - USA
Doug Steele
Lieutenant Peoria Police Department Doug is 41 years of age and has spent the past 15 years as a police officer. He is married with two children. He has been involved with Torch Run for the past 10 years and after several years of being involved in the run was asked by his agency to be the department’s Torch Run coordinator. From taking on that position, it has been an exciting journey. He have been selected as the Assistant State Director and part of SOAZ’s Board of Directors. Working as a team with the State Director and LETR SO Coordinator, Arizona has completely restructured its Council. They have worked with other LETR programs to look at best practices and took from Arizona’s history what they felt was successful. In that, in 2010/2011 Arizona had its best year. Doug is honored to Team be part of the team and is certain that Arizona will continue to develop and in the future be a ‘go to’ program for LETR programs 5 across the nation.
Final Leg Team Profiles 41
KENTUCKY - USA
Scott Teal
Special Agent Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives Scott has been involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics for 18 years. He has been a law enforcement officer for over 25 years and is currently a Special Agent and a member of the Special Response Team (SRT) with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives assigned to the Louisville Field Division. Scott lives in Lexington, Kentucky with his wife and two daughters. They often volunteer at Special Olympics events and competitions as a family. Scott also likes running, playing soccer, and Crossfit. He is a member of the Kentucky Law Enforcement Torch Run Executive Council and assists with raising funds and awareness for Torch Run programs. Scott’s favorite Team Torch Run memory was participating in a fundraiser where he sat on a billboard for a week at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Scott 10 loves helping others.
QUEENSLAND - AUSTRALIA
Johan Temmerman
Sergeant Queensland Police Service Johan has been a Police Officer for 18 years and currently works at the Disaster and Major Event Planning Branch based in Brisbane. Johan became involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run in 2006 as a planning officer for the Torch Run into the Special Olympics VIII National Games at the Gold Coast and has been hooked ever since. Johan is one of the founding members of Law Enforcement Torch program in Queensland. Johan and his wife, Carmen are both Law Enforcement Torch Run Queensland committee members and share the passion. Johan enjoys cycling, motorcycling, camping and fishing. He rates his proudest moment Team as running the torch from Cairns to the Queensland border and into the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics IX National 9 Games, Adelaide in 2010.
Final Leg Team Profiles 42
OKLAHOMA - USA
Jacob Thompson
Sergeant Tulsa Police Department Jacob began his career at the Tulsa Police Department in 1998 and is currently assigned to the Bomb Squad. He is instrumental in the Polar Plunge for the Tulsa Metro Area. Jacob's dedication is the reason the event is as successful as it is. Other activities he consistently participates in are; Tip-a-Cops, Torch Runs, Over the Edge, and Polar Plunges. He is always coming up with creative new ideas in which to raise money. Jacob is responsible for the inclusion of always bringing new officers from Tulsa Police Department as part of the Opening Ceremonies at the State Summer Games. Jacob has helped put Tulsa Police Department Team out front as far as the department and its involvement with the community. He has a heart as big as all outdoors and an attitude 9 that gets everyone excited to participate.
ALBERTA - CANADA
Amanda Trenchard
Constable Edmonton Police Service Amanda has been a Police Officer for five years with the Edmonton Police Service and is currently working patrol. Amanda has been involved with Special Olympics for 14 years as a coach and official in the sports of Soccer (which she also plays) and Floor Hockey. When she joined the Edmonton Police service in 2007 she soon became involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run and is presently the director of Torch Run for her department. In 2010 Amanda was honored as Edmonton’s Top Cop for her commitment to Special Olympics and the Torch Run. She was also Special Olympics Coach of the Year in 2010. Working with the Special Olympics athletes has become one of the Team most rewarding aspects of Amanda’s life. She believes that they teach her more about life than she will ever teach them about 3 soccer or floor Hockey.
Final Leg Team Profiles 43
UTAH - USA
Michael Tueller
Sergeant Utah Highway Patrol Mike has worked in Law Enforcement for 19 years, and currently supervises a commercial vehicle crew. Mike's first exposure with the Law Enforcement Torch Run was as a rookie officer, who was "asked" to participate in the area Torch Run. He got more involved with the LETR, when his oldest son, who is autistic, started competing in Special Olympics. He currently serves on the State LETR Executive Board. Mike's proudest moment in Special Olympics was watching his son take Gold, Silver, and Bronze in track at his first State Summer Games. Mike has said "the greatest thing Special Olympics gives my son, is a place he is accepted and Team can succeed. Mike loves to SCUBA dive and spend time camping with his family. He has been married for 22 years, and has five 1 children.
NEW MEXICO - USA
Michelle Ugalde
Deputy Dona Ana County Sheriff’s Office
Michelle has been a police officer for 12 years after a career in nursing. She was raised in San Diego and grew up spending almost every waking moment on the beach. She has three children and two grandchildren. Michelle has been involved with Torch Run for over 8 years after being handed a t-shirt and told to bring her running shoes at 6 a.m. She found out later she was doing a Torch Run. Michelle’s current role is a Deputy in the Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) program and a Team Crime Prevention and Community Officer. She enjoys Zumba, outdoor activities and watersports. 10
Final Leg Team Profiles 44
ILLINOIS - USA
Ken Veach
Special Agent (Retired) Federal Bureau of Investigation
Ken recently retired from the FBI after 25 years service and currently works for the Cook County Treasurer’s Office as an Administrative Analyst. He has been involved in the Torch Run for over 23 years, beginning with the relay to the State Summer Games. He raised over $4000 to $8000 in each of the years that he had been involved. Ken has been a member of the Illinois State Committee for over 13 years and a volunteer for Special Olympics for over 18 years, averaging more than 400 volunteer hours per Team year. Ken look forward to each competition like it was the first time and get as much enjoyment from the participants as they or 3 their families.
VENEZUELA
Julio Vergara
Director
Policía Municipal Baruta
Julio is 41 years of age, married with two children, a girl of 8, and a boy aged 4. He has over 16 years police service and is currently the Chief of the Police Operations Center. He is extremely proud of his achievements as a police officer. Julio has been involved with Special Olympics and LETR for over 6 years and took part in the 2007 Final Leg in Shanghai, China. He enjoys playing the guitar, shooting and new technology.
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Final Leg Team Profiles 45
NORTH CAROLINA - USA
Thurman Whisnant
Captain Hickory Police Department
Thurman was born and raised in Hickory, North Carolina and joined the Hickory Police Department 18 years ago after completing a degree in Criminal Justice. He currently holds the position of Criminal Investigations Division Commander. He is married and is the father of two wonderful children. He believes in taking every opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others. This is why he chose policing as a career and why being involved in the Torch Run is so important to him. Team 2
NEBRASKA - USA
Kevin Wiese
Detective Omaha Police Department Kevin has been a Police Officer for 6 years and is currently a Detective in the Child Victim/ Sexual Assault Unit. Kevin got involved in the Torch Run in Nebraska in 2008 during a run which ran across the entire state of Nebraska. Kevin has since been involved on the Nebraska State Committee which helped put together the National Games Final Leg Torch run in Nebraska in 2010. Kevin has been amazed by the people he has met during the Torch Run and the Torch Run has helped him realize how his profession can help people outside of law enforcement itself. One of Kevin's favorite Torch Run moments was meeting athletes from Team around the state of Nebraska. Kevin is married and enjoys running, paintball, reading, the outdoors, and playing with his dog 8 Colonel.
Final Leg Team Profiles 46
BRITISH COLUMBIA - CANADA
Joanne Wild
Sergeant Vancouver Police Department Joanne Wild has been a Police Officer for 21 years and is currently the Sergeant of the Property Crime Unit. Joanne first became involved in the Law Enforcement Torch Run in 1995 and has not looked back. She is now the Team Captain for the British Columbia Torch Run and ensures it runs smoothly each year. Like so many officers who are involved with the LETR and Special Olympics, Joanne gets so much more out of her involvement than she ever realized in the beginning. In 2011, Joanne was the recipient of the Rob Plunkett Law Enforcement Torch Run Award which is the most prestigious award for LETR members in Canada. Her proudest moment in Special Olympics is running the Torch into the Opening Team Ceremonies for the 2009 SOBC Summer Games. Joanne is an avid runner who has completed numerous marathons, ultra-marathons 8 and adventure races.
NEVADA - USA
Robert Woolsey
Chief Marshall Boulder City Marshall Division Robert has been a law enforcement officer for 14 years and is currently the Chief Marshal for the Boulder City Marshal Division. Robert first got involved with the Torch Run in 1999 and since then, has been involved in every fundraising and public awareness event the campaign has endorsed. Robert has received a multitude of public and private agency awards for his volunteerism, and has been on the Nevada LETR Executive Committee since 2004. Robert is currently assigned as the State Director for the Nevada LETR, and in this capacity, he has worked to increase fundraising and awareness to an all time high. Robert Team lives in Henderson, Nevada with his two children, Matthew and Lauren. He enjoys spending time with his kids, traveling and 4 spreading the LETR and Special Olympics message.
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COLORADO - USA
Chris Wright
Trooper Colorado State Patrol
Chris Wright has been a Colorado State Trooper for 15 years in western Colorado. Chris got involved with Special Olympics through his wife’s work and started a golf team called the Grand Junction Club Chuckers. He has coached swimming, softball, basketball, skiing and golf over the years. He got involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run one day when he was asked to help out at a Cop-on Top event and then a Tip-A-Cop. In 2006, Chris received a volunteer award for his volunteering with Special Olympics from the Western Colorado Peace Officers Association. In 2007 he attended his first International Conference in Team Oklahoma and that was the event that hooked him for life. In 2009, he became the LETR Deputy State Director for the Western 10 Area of Colorado.
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Jeongwan (Chris) Yim
Senior Inspector
Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency
Jeongwan Yim is 33 years old and has been a police officer for over 10 years. He is currently the Detective Team Manager at Geumcheong Police Station. He specializes in cyber crime investigations and has travelled to the UK and the Netherlands on business trips. Chris is single and enjoys participating in triathalons. While he has had no previous exposure to the Torch Run, he is looking forward to meeting his team mates in the Final Leg. Team
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Ecuador
Juan Zapata
Chief of Operations Ecuador National Police
Juan has been a Police Officer for 33 years and is currently working as the Chief of Operations in the National Police of Ecuador. Juan got involved with Special Olympics 5 years ago as a volunteer and in the past 3 years has participated in the Final Leg of the National Games of Ecuador. Juan has been married for 15 years and has 4 children. He likes all sports, but especially he likes to run. He is the Speaker of the Campaign "Corazones Azules". He has received many National and International awards for this campaign and it has been replicated by 5 other countries. Team 8
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ALBERTA - CANADA
Paul Manuel
Inspector (Retired)
Calgary Police Service Paul Manuel was a police officer in Calgary for 34 years retiring in 2011. He started with the LETR in 1988 as a runner in the local Torch Run and from there started becoming involved in various fund raising events. Over the years, Paul’s involvement grew to organizing events and runs and then to becoming the Director of his Provinces Torch Run Program. In 2007 Paul was elected as the Region XI Coordinator on the International Executive Council and has served in that position since that time. He is a veteran of 5 previous World Games Final Leg Teams, being a Run Team Leader for the past four. Paul is also the Head Coach for the Team Special Olympics Calgary Power Lifting Program, a role he thoroughly enjoys. Paul is married to Theresa, has three sons and 1 three grandsons.
QUEENSLAND - AUSTRALIA
Brett Price
Sergeant Queensland Police Service Brett is currently a Sergeant at the Major Event Planning Unit of the Queensland Police Service. Brett has 25 years service and has worked in general duties for most of his service. Brett is married to Jo, a police officer, and he has a 6 year old daughter Zara, who is his biggest fan and SO buddy. Brett was the founding member of LETR in his state and after 5 short years has, with a small team of hard workers raised nearly $100,000. Brett is a mad keen sportsman and still plays competitive Australian football, triathalons and generally keeps fit. Brett has been a team member on Final Leg Runs in China and Greece. Brett is extremely Team honored and proud to have been selected as a Team Leader and sees this as the highest honor in his LETR involvement. Bring on 2 Korea.
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HAWAII - USA
Antonio Williams
Deputy Chief of Police US Army Garrison, Hawaii
Antonio has been in law enforcement for 27 years, first as a military police officer (MP) with the U.S. Army and, now, as the Deputy Chief of Police for U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii. He became an MP because he knew he wanted to help people. It is that same sense of service that drives him to participate in Special Olympics. He became involved with Special Olympics by running the Law Enforcement Torch Run. Now he’s a softball and bocce coach, an avid fundraiser through annual Cop on Top, Tip a Cop, Fueling Dreams, and Polar Plunge events. He is also a member of the Team SOHI Executive Committee and the Law Enforcement Torch Run Executive Council. 3
CONNECTICUT - USA
Joseph Carlone
Captain Connecticut Department of Corrections
Joseph Carlone has been with the Department of Corrections for twenty-two years. He is currently a Captain assigned as the Executive Officer for the Tactical Units. In his spare time he enjoys camping with his family and spending time in the gym. Joe is an active volunteer who participates and supports several Special Olympics events such as penguin plunges, Summer Games and others. Joe is currently the Assistant Torch Run Director and the Region 1 Coordinator and has been involved with Torch Run for over twenty years. Joe is not just involved with Special Team Olympics, he lives it every day, his daughter and son are huge volunteers and passionate about the athletes they support. 4
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MONTANA - USA
Jason Johnson
Detective Missoula County Sherriff’s Office
Jason has been involved with the Torch Run since 1999. In that time he has served as a Runner, Leg Leader, Montana Regional Coordinator and Special Event Coordinator. Jason currently serves as the Assistant Director for LETR MT and sits on the International Executive Council as the Region 8 coordinator and also serves as the Chairman of the Regional Coordinator’s Committee. Jason was on the Final Leg Team in Japan and a Running Team Leader for Final Legs in Iowa and Greece. Jason has been married to his wife Angela for 16 years and has two children, Breanna, 14 and Cole, 10. Jason has said, “I am forever indebted to Special Olympics Team athletes and their families for greatly enriching my life.”
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NORTHERN IRELAND - UK
Tim Craig
Sergeant Police Service of Northern Ireland
Tim is married with two children. His interests include rugby and boxing. He has served as a police officer in Northern Ireland for over 29 years and is currently attached to the Operational Support Department. Tim has been involved in the Torch Run for 14 years, he serves on his local Torch Run committee and he has also served on the International Torch Run Executive Council. Tim was a member of the 2003, 2005 and 2007 Final Leg Teams. He also led the Final Leg Team for the 2006 European Youth Games in Rome. Tim’s wife Susan is a Special Olympics golf coach, daughter Kerrie is at Edinburgh University and son Ryan is a Team Special Olympics athlete who competes in athletics, golf and gymnastics. Tim was inducted into the Richard LaMunyon Hall of 6 Fame in 2007.
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MARYLAND - USA
Danielle Bradshaw-Lee
Major Maryland Transportation Authority Police Danielle has been with the Maryland Transportation Authority Police since 1995. Danielle has been involved with LETR since 1999, but had her eyes opened by the spirit of one athlete while touring the Oklahoma bombing museum in 2006. Maryland athlete Adam Hayes held Danielle's hand and said "there are bad people in this world that could do something like this, that is why I am so glad I have friends like you". Danielle said "The amazing spirit of one athlete to see beyond the destruction and devastation to the possibilities that can be achieved with support and friendship made me want to be the person Adam saw in me" Danielle involves all three of her children and her husband Frank Team in every event and has spearheaded numerous fundraising events. Danielle was honored to receive the Maryland LETR 7 “Flame of Hope” award in 2009.
IRELAND
Gary Gordon
Sergeant An Garda Síochána Gary is a member of An Garda Siochana, Ireland's police force. He is Sergeant in Charge of the Community Policing Unit in Kilkenny City. Gary has been involved with Special Olympics since 2002 and organized the ceremony in Kilkenny Castle for the Flame of Hope during the World Games in 2003. Garys' crew transports athletes to events from the local Special Olympics clubs. He has run Tip a Cop events, Cops on Top events and his favorite event is Cops on Donut Shops, which is starting to travel Ireland to new locations. Gary was highly honored to be picked as a Team Leader for the Leinster Province Torch Run for the National Games in 2010. He loves running with athletes and his fellow LETR Officers from the Team Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), raising awareness, which shows the spirit of the Flame of Hope. 8
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QUEBEC - CANADA
Johanne Lesage
Constable
Service de police de la Ville de Montreal Jo has been involved with LETR since 1997. She was the Provincial Director for the last 5 years. She is a municipal Constable working with the Montreal Police Service for the past 25 years. She has assisted in many fundraising activities and has organized both Provincial and National Final Legs in Quebec. Her proudest moment was her first Special Olympics World Winter Games in 2009 when she was running with Paula Morrissey, a fabulous athlete from Australia. Paula became her hero. She is a proud mother of Rebecca and Samuel. She enjoys skating, hiking, jogging and having fun moments with her mate David and the kids. Jo has given a lot of speeches for the program and she Team always finishes her speech like this; "I can't explain how you will feel being a part of LETR and Special Olympics, you have to live it. 9 So, come with me and I will show it to you”.
NEW SOUTH WALES - AUSTRALIA
Don Stuart
Senior Sergeant (Retired) New South Wales Police Force Don was a member of the NSW Police Force for over 26 years, retiring in November, 2011. Don has been involved with Torch Run since 2003. In 2005, he was selected as the Australian Torch Runner for the Winter Games Final Leg in Japan. Don coordinated the 2006 and 2010 Australian Summer Games Final Legs as well as the 2007 Global Final Leg in Sydney. He serves on the LETR International Executive Council as Region XIV (Oceania) Region Coordinator and is a member of the 2013 Final Leg Planning Committee. Don was a Team Leader on the 2011 Final Leg in Greece, a Final Leg he will never forget. Don says there is nothing Team better than running with the Flame of Hope and Special Olympic athletes. Don is married and his wife Lori is originally from 10 Southern California.
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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA – USA
Roberta Abner
Chief Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
Roberta’s first experiences with Torch Run included running the torch in 1993 and supporting fundraising events. In 2003, she became the Southern California Torch Run Director as well as joining the Board of Directors for Special Olympics Southern California. Roberta was elected to the Law Enforcement Torch Run Executive Council in 2009 as the Region VII Coordinator. Her most memorable and moving experience was serving as host for the 2010 International Law Enforcement Torch Run Conference in Long Beach. It resulted in the creation of stronger bonds between Route law enforcement and the Special Olympics athletes of Southern California. Los Angeles looks forward to hosting the Special 2 Olympics World Summer Games in 2015!
ARKANSAS - USA
Bill Buford
Bomb Squad Commander (Retired) Arkansas State Police
Bill has been involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics for over 25 years. Bill was the Arkansas Torch Run Director for 17 years and has served on the LETR Executive Council as a Regional Coordinator or an At-Large position since 1989 and is currently the Regional Coordinator for the Caribbean. Bill is retired from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with 31 years service. After retiring from the ATF he went on to work for the Arkansas State Police as their Bomb Squad Commander for seven years. Bill's favorite experience with Route the LETR is working with the Special Olympics athletes. Their smiles and enthusiasm have inspired him throughout the past 25 2 years.
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WYOMING- USA
Ron Casalenda
Lieutenant Douglas Police Department
Ron is a Lieutenant with the Douglas Police Department and has over 33 years of law enforcement experience. Ron was been involved with LETR since 1994 and has been the Wyoming State LETR Co-Director since 1999. Ron is married to his wife Deb, and has 2 children a son Justin, a daughter Ashley, and has 2 grandchildren. When not working with LETR, Ron enjoys camping, working as a high school/middle school basketball official and involved in multiple aspects of football, cross country and track officiating. Ron's biggest accomplishment involving LETR is his Route induction into the Richard LaMunyon Torch Run Hall of Fame.
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HONG KONG
Patrick Chan
Chief Inspector (Retired)
Hong Kong Police
Patrick retired from police service in 2011 after having proudly served the Hong Kong Police Force for over 35 years. Patrick was first involved in Law Enforcement Torch Run in 1995 and has been a Final Leg runner in North Carolina in 1999 and Alaska in 2001. He has served in the Law Enforcement Torch Run Executive Council as a Regional Coordinator since 2008. Patrick represented his department in volleyball and running. Since his retirement he has completed six 10K races and three half marathons in the past year. He looks forward to meeting the Route athletes and police officers from around the world during the 2013 Korea Final Leg . 1
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FLORIDA - USA
Laura Collins
LETR Manager Special Olympics Florida
Laura Collins has served the athletes of Special Olympics Florida as the Law Enforcement Torch Run Manager since 2007. Through her leadership and the dedication of law enforcement officers across Florida the program has proven to be one of the most successful in the world. Laura is continually amazed by the support of law enforcement volunteers and feels honored to be part of this organization which benefits more than 16,000 athletes throughout the state. Her commitment to Special Olympics Florida athletes drives her desire to continue to grow Route the program and she is determined to inspire every law enforcement officer and agency in the state to get involved. 2
IDAHO - USA
Jim Kerns
Deputy Chief (Retired) Boise Police Department Jim retired as the Deputy Chief of the Boise Police Department in July 2011 after 29 years of service. During this time, Jim immersed himself into many community events, however, no event or activity has captured his heart like that of the Special Olympics. Jim’s involvement in the Law Enforcement Torch Run began 10 years ago. He participated in a Tip a Cop event at Red Lobster and met many athletes during the event. Jim was really hooked when he helped at the Idaho Summer and Winter Special Olympics Games. Jim has made many new friends that are Special Olympics athletes and he holds them in highest regard. Jim led the Idaho Route Final Leg Support Team for the 2009 World Winter Games. He has participated in Final Leg events in Iowa 2006 and China 2007, 1 Nebraska, 2008, Idaho, 2009, and Athens, Greece 2011.
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VIRGINIA - USA
Erika Morant
Special Olympics International Erika is a Specialist for the Law Enforcement Torch Run and the Honored Guest Program with Special Olympics International. Morant is a graduate of Syracuse University where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance and a minor in Fashion Design. In 2012, Erika received her Master of Tourism Administration (MTA) with a concentration in Event and Meeting Management from The George Washington University. Prior to working for Special Olympics International, she was employed by Macy’s East and Macy’s, Inc., where she held the positions of Route Business Analyst and Group Sales Manager, respectively. She is also a member of the Potomac Chapter of Meeting Planners 1 International.
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA - USA
Mike Peretti
Lieutenant (Retired) Livermore Police Department Mike Peretti is a thirty-one year law enforcement veteran. He recently retired from the Livermore Police Department in Northern California. Mike’s career highlights include a twenty year attachment to the Tactical Operations Unit and assignments to Traffic, Criminal Investigations, Support Services and Patrol. Mike has spent twenty-two years teaching criminal justice courses at the regional academy and local university. Mike possesses undergraduate and post graduate degrees and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. A Torch Runner since 1998, Mike has served as his agency’s coordinator, member of the Northern California LETR Executive Committee, and has been a member of the LETR International Executive Council since 2003. Mike has Route presided as Chair of the LETR International Council since 2010 where he also Chairs the International Conference Planning 1 Committee.
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MONTANA - USA
Terri Sappington
Torch Run Coordinator Special Olympics Montana
Terri became a part of the Special Olympics Montana staff in November of 2000 after serving four years as a corporate volunteer for the State Summer Games. Those early volunteer experiences, overflowing with athlete hugs, high fives and medal celebrations helped shape Terri’s passion for Special Olympics. In 2003, Terri became the Torch Run Coordinator for Special Olympics Montana where she has provided service and support to the fine men and women of law enforcement. Terri spends her free time with her husband Doug and children; Taylor, Joshua and Route Addison.
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MARYLAND - USA
Jeff Spaulding
Chief Westminster Police Department
Jeff Spaulding has been involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run® for more than 25 years, starting first as a local Torch Runner and medal presenter, then becoming more involved within his department, his County and now serving as the Central Region Coordinator for Maryland. His "ah ha" Torch Run experience occurred when he had the privilege of rooming with Special Olympics athlete Chris Perrault from Connecticut for 12 days
during the 2005 Final Leg in Japan. When not sitting on a Dunkin Donuts rooftop or jumping into freezing water to raise money for Route Special Olympics, Jeff can be found fishing, golfing (badly) or riding his "Fat Boy" Harley. 1
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NEW SOUTH WALES - AUSTRALIA
Scott Whyte
Detective Superintendent New South Wales Police Force
Scott has been involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for six years and was the foundation Torch Run Director of the first LETR Program established in Australia (LETR NSW). He started his policing career in 1978 with Strathclyde Police in Scotland and then returned home to Australia and joined the New South Wales Police Force in 1983. He is a Detective Superintendent and is currently the Commander of the Terrorism Investigations Squad, based in Sydney. He is married to Julianne and they have a daughter, Rebecca, both of whom work for the NSW Police Force. Route Scott was delighted to have been asked to contribute to the 2013 Korea LETR Final Leg as a member of the Support Team. 2
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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA – USA
Harry Drucker
Sergeant Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Currently a Sergeant with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, Harry manages the Department's Studio responsible for making training films and Public Service Announcements. Although a relative newcomer to the LETR, Harry has been involved in Special Olympics for many years. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the North American Police Ski and Snowboard Championships (www.napsc.org) an International event that raises money for the Special Olympics Winter Sports programs. For nearly 16 years, Harry has held a collateral duty with the Department as a Crisis/Hostage Negotiator. He is a Negotiation Team Leader and instructs police negotiators Route internationally every year. Harry lives in Sherman Oaks, a suburb of Los Angeles with his wife Pam and their three children, Jenna, 2 Sophie and Jacob.
IDAHO - USA
Andrea Kramer
Kramer Photography Studio Andrea started her law enforcement career as a dispatcher for the Boundary County Sheriffs Office and went on to become a Sheriff’s Deputy and Narcotics Officer for the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office, serving 11 years. She was also a State Dispatch Instructor and EMT Instructor for ten years. Andrea’s first LETR was in 1986. Andrea left law enforcement and worked in the medical field as COO for a Community Health Center. Since the early 80’s, Andrea has always kept her hand in professional photography and still owns and operates Kramer Photography Studio with her husband David. Andrea was a photographer for the Final Legs in Idaho, (2009), Nebraska (2010) and Greece Route (2011). Her two top passions in life beside her family … photography and LETR Final Leg! So when you see her … 2 SMILE FOR THE CAMERA!
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IDAHO - USA
David Kramer
Chief (Retired) Bonners Ferry Police Department
Dave is a retired Chief of Police. He served 30+ years with the Bonners Ferry, Idaho Police Dept. Dave is a graduate of the FBI National Academy (#199) and has served as President of the Montana/Idaho FBINAA Chapter and President of the Idaho Chiefs of Police Association. He is currently working at North Idaho College as the Law Enforcement Coordinator for the POST Basic Patrol Academy. He has been active in Special Olympics for over 20 years as a Coach and Law Enforcement Torch Runner, including the Final Leg in Austria 1993, as a Running Team Leader at the 2009 Final Leg World Winter Games in Idaho, Documentation Team member at the USA National Games Final Route Leg in Nebraska in 2010 and on the Documentation Team at the International Torch Run in Greece in 2011. Dave and his wife, 1 Andrea are both award winning professional photographers.
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Kwangsoo Ahn
Kwangsoo Ahn is the Korea Games Organizing Committee Team Leader responsible for the Torch Run. He loves mountain climbing and this has enabled him to live a healthy life. He has been working as a government official and thinks being involved in Special Olympics is very meaningful. He will do his best to make sure the Torch Run is a very successful event leading up to the Special Olympics World Winter Games in PyeongChang.
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Hajin Eim
Hajin Eim was born in Chuncheon, Kangwon province and he had been on the shooting team at the university he attended. After that, he coached elite athletes for four years as shooting instructor and then worked in a field of sports for the disabled after receiving a job with the Gangwon Sports Association for the Disabled as full time sports instructor. Hajin is working hard for better training conditions and raising awareness for sports programs for the disabled. He likes traveling to experience and learn many new things. He is committed to serving for this year’s Special Olympics World Winter Games success. Route
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Younghee Heo
Younghee Heo is working for the Special Olympics World Winter Games Organizing Committee as a member of the Torch Run team. She heard the term “Special Olympics” for the first time as she started working at the GOC. The Pre-Games held in February 2012 changed her awareness of people with intellectual disabilities. She learned that there are many things that the athletes could do that she couldn’t. For example, she saw many of her friends with intellectual disabilities giving a great performance by using musical instruments, instruments that she cannot play. She also witnessed athletes figure skating and skiing, difficult sports that she doesn’t know how to do. Younghee will do Route her best in supporting Special Olympics so that the athletes can show their great abilities and everyone can be winner! 2
Eugene Jeong
Eugene was born in PyeongChang. He has worked for the PyeongChang County Office since 1994. He is interested in improving his English language skills and like meeting people.
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Haesook Jeong
Haesook has been a serving public officer for about 20 years. She has been responsible for the Final Leg Torch Run at 2013 PyeongChang Winter Special Olympics for the Games Organizing Committee. While working there, she has come to know much about the Special Olympics and she is enjoying it now. She attended "The Observer Program" in 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens, Greece. She likes to play sports, especially table tennis and tennis. She is dedicated to success of 2013 Korea Final Leg event.
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Byeongjik Kang
Byeongjik is working at the Economic Policy Division of Gangwon Province. He is in charge of the employment assistance service. He is 43 years old, married with one son and two daughters. He lives in Chuncheon City where the Gangwon Provincial Government is located. He always loves challenging new things and easily adjusts himself to new environments. He hopes the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games will be held successfully in his home town, the Gangwon Province. He is very honored to communicate with those who are from other countries through this opportunity. He strongly believes that this experience will expand his knowledge and broaden his point of view. Route
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Jonghwa Kim
Jonghwa Kim works in the foreign affairs section in Gyeongnam Provicinal Police Agency. His current assignment is dealing with Korean visits of foreign guests, international events, terrorism, etc. He was born in Changwon, Gyeongsangnamdo Province, and was married in 2010. He has two sons, born in April 2011 and September 2012 respectively. He has a third-degree black belt in practice Taekwon-do, although it is hard for him to practice these days due to his busy schedule.
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Kwangsu Kim
Kwangsu is 28 years old and majored in Sport Science and Mass Communication at Sung Kyun Kwan University. As a member of the Korean Olympic Committee he understands exactly how the Olympic movement can change the world. He is so delighted to be a part of this great event.
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Yonghyun Kim
Yonghyun Kim has been working for Korean Sports Association for the Disabled for six years. His job is to support disabled people’s “Sports for All,” including class for disabled youth, festival participation, supplying integrated physical education, etc. Although he was born in Seoul, he looks just like a native of Jeolla Province, which is his parents hometown. He has been married for three years and lives in Seoul. He didn’t major in physical education and he is not good at sports, but he likes and enjoys playing sports. Recently, golf became his favorite sport. He is honored to be supporting Torch Run, which is a symbol of Special Route Olympics and he will do his best to assist with the event.
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Seungkyu Lee
Seungkyu is thirty seven years of age . He was born in Gangneung
and has lived in Gangneung city for thirty seven years. He is very happy to participate in the Final Leg as a member of the Support Team.
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Byeongdo Min
Byeongdo is the Deputy Director of the International Business Bureau and is in charge of the international Convention. His hometown is Jeong-Sun County in Gangwon Province. He is married and lives with his wife and two daughters. He plays tennis and enjoys a game with his club every weekend.
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Jonggue Oh
Jonggue has been working for the Korean National Police Agency for about 15 years, and is working at the Korean Police Training Institute at the moment. When it comes to the Final Leg event, he was one of the members who participated in 2011 Summer Special Olympics in Athens, Greece. He was a Torch Runner on Team 5 and at that time he met great police officers and athlete representatives who came from many other countries in the world. Because he was the first Korean participant for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, the Torch Run was a really honorable and unforgettable memory for him. As he experienced and learned some know-how and systems for the Final Leg, he would like to help the Korea GOC host the 2013 Korea Final Leg Torch Run and share these experiences with his coworkers. He is looking forward to meeting his great friends Route again and hopes to see the great athletes play their best during the Special Olympics Games. 1
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Byoungjin Park
Byoungjin Park is a native of Kangwon Province who was born in Chuncheon and still lives there. He attended school in Kangwon Province from elementary school all the way up to university, and even served his military service in the Kangwon Province. Maybe because of that, people say that his face looks like a potato. Usually the people of Kangwon Province are compared to the potato. His senior students at the university introduced him to his wife and they have two children, 6 and 3 years old. Byoungjin likes outdoor activities especially camping and fishing. Maybe because of that, in the summer his face gets tanned like a burned potato. Both his wife and children like going camping together. He was a swimming athlete when he was in elementary and middle school and that led him to physical education major for his university major and made it possible for him to work for Gangwon-do Sports Council. His job includes management of Route skilled athletes and appointment of instructors, so his job is related to the improvement of physical education in the Kangwon 1 Province.
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