Central New York Officer Barry Banfield Selected to Carry Flame of Hope at 2026 USA Games

A member of the Law Enforcement Torch Run community in Central New York is preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime honor this summer. Barry Banfield, a dedicated partner of Special Olympics New York, has been selected to run the final leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota this June.

His mission will take Barry on a demanding journey across multiple states. Beginning in early June, he will join fellow runners traveling from New Jersey to Minnesota, participating in daily runs and community events along the way. Some days will include up to four runs, totaling nearly 12 miles.

“I’m not a runner,” Barry admitted. “So it’s definitely going to be a challenge. But it’s for an excellent cause, and that’s what keeps me going.”

Chosen through a nomination process that recognizes leadership, commitment, and service, Barry will represent New York as he helps carry the Flame of Hope into the opening ceremonies. For him, the opportunity is both humbling and deeply meaningful.

“It’s an honor to be picked,” Barry said. “To represent the state going into the final leg is something special. There’s a lot of weight that comes with it, but I’m really excited.”

Barry’s journey to this milestone spans more than a decade. He was first introduced to the Law Enforcement Torch Run in 2008, initially volunteering without fully understanding its scope. Years later, after participating in events like Polar Plunges and State Summer Games, he became more deeply involved, eventually serving as a regional coordinator and now as an assistant director on the statewide committee. But it wasn’t until attending an international conference that Barry realized the global impact of the movement.

“I had no idea how big it was,” he said. “It’s a whole network of law enforcement officers from across the world coming together to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics.”

Throughout the journey, Barry will be running alongside athletes and fellow officers, an experience he says will provide the motivation he needs to push through the physical demands.

“Knowing the end goal is the Games, and being able to run alongside an athlete, that’s everything,” he said. “We’re going to push each other.”

For Barry, the most rewarding part of his involvement has always come back to the athletes themselves. Whether presenting medals or simply sharing moments at events, those interactions have left a lasting impact.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than putting a medal on an athlete who has given it their all,” he said. “The excitement, the joy, even just a hug after. That’s what it’s all about.”

As he prepares for the journey ahead, Barry remains focused on the bigger picture.

“It’s easy to get caught up in the events and the logistics,” he said. “But at the end of the day, it’s about people. It’s about giving athletes opportunities to compete, connect, and be part of something bigger.”

With the start date quickly approaching, Barry is training, preparing, and embracing the responsibility that comes with carrying the Flame of Hope across the country.

“It’s an immense honor. I just want to do my best to represent New York.”

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