Dutchess / Ulster County Torch Run

Welcome! LETR is a major fundraising effort for Special Olympics, supporting sports programs, health initiatives, and other activities.  The torch run raises public awareness about Special Olympics, its athletes, and the importance of inclusion and acceptance for individuals with intellectual disabilities.  The “Flame of Hope” carried during the torch run symbolizes courage, perseverance, and the power of sports to change lives.  Since its start in the 1980’s, the Law Enforcement Torch Run in New York has raised more than $14 million while increasing awareness of Special Olympics New York athletes and their accomplishments.  We cannot achieve these accomplishments without YOU and are glad you are taking part in this annual inclusive movement! 

Runner information & t-shirt order link is below.

Wednesday, Sept 3, 2025 – The Dutchess & Ulster County Torch Run 

Run begins at 10:00am. Day of Registration will begin 8:45am.

The route is a point-to-point course starting at FDR Library 4079 Albany Post Rd. Hyde Park and finishing at Mahoney’s Irish Pub & Steakhouse 35 Main St. Poughkeepsie, for post run lunch and refreshments.

The route traverses Rt. 9 S to Marist University through the Rt. 9 underpass to the MJM Northside Line. Run then connects to Walkway State Park crossing over to Ulster County, down Haviland Rd., to the Mid-Hudson Bridge, crossing back into Dutchess County to Rinaldi Blvd., Main St., and then concluding at Mahoney’s. The entire route is roughly 8 miles. Runners have an option to run the entire route or participate in several legs of the course. Three water stations will be available along the route and group photo opportunities will take place at FDR Library, Marist University, Walkway Over the Hudson, Mid-Hudson Bridge and at Mahoney’s.

Carpooling is highly encouraged. No shuttles are provided back to FDR Library after the event concludes.

This is a rain or shine event.

• Download a Detailed Route Map Here 

• Purchase your shirts online here
• RSVP For the Run Here

Pre-registered – T-Shirt pick up location:  FDR bus foyer 

8:45am – Day of Registration begins.

T-shirt sizes may be limited if registering day of event. Best option is to place t-shirt order PRIOR to the July 30th order deadline.

If starting at a different mileage point other than the FDR start line, please pre-order your t-shirt & coordinate a pick-up prior to the day of event with either Alonzo – amontanya@dutchessny.gov or Susanne – soneil@nyso.org.  We want to make sure everyone is wearing a LETR tee during event.

Virtual Run Option

Looking to show solidarity and support of our local Law Enforcement and Special Olympics athletes but cannot attend this year’s torch run?

Please consider purchasing this year’s torch run t-shirt and participating in our virtual option where you can still represent LETR by sporting a tee and choosing a race, walk, or fun run of your choice. If choosing the virtual option, don’t forget to share your pics with us and tag us at @LawEnforcementTorchRun-SpecialOlympicsNewYork

Corporate Sponsorship

• Here is this year’s Corporate Sponsorship Document and Event flyer
• The deadline for t-shirt orders and sponsorship is July 30, 2025.
• Business and corporate sponsorship gifts can be made online you can pay here.

Gold Sponsorship – $5,000 Commitment

• Premium logo placement on 600 LETR shirts
• Volunteer opportunities at community Torch Runs (where available)
• Mention in regional LETR press releases
• Speaking opportunities at Torch Runs (where available)
• Sponsorship of awards presentation at Regional Fall Games (includes signage an
  opportunity to hand out medals)
• Banner placement & recognition at community Torch Runs
• Dedicated social media post on LETR page
• Sponsor 10 local athletes for 1 sports season
• 12 LETR Shirts

Silver Sponsorship – $2,500 Commitment

• Logo on the back of 600 LETR shirts
• Sponsorship of awards presentation at Regional Fall Games (includes signage and an
• opportunity to hand out medals)
• Sponsor 5 local athletes for 1 sports season
• 10 LETR shirts

Bronze Sponsorship – $1,000 Commitment

• Logo on the back of 600 LETR shirts
• Recognition at community Torch Runs
• Sponsor 2 local athletes for 1 sports season
• 5 LETR Shirts

Sponsor an Athlete Sponsorship – $500 Commitment

• Your company/organization name on the back of 600 LETR shirts
• Sponsor 1 local athlete for 1 sports season
• 2 LETR shirts

SPONSORSHIP & T-SHIRT DEADLINE: July 30, 2025

For more information: Susanne O’Neil Special Olympics NY soneil@nyso.org