Ronan Police Department relays for Special Olympics

By Alyssa Kelly

Members of the Ronan Police and Fire Department joined Special Olympics participant James Black Wolf (holding torch) for a fundraising relay run. (B.L. Azure photo)

PABLO - With police vehicles close behind, several men dressed brightly in orange ran near the Tribal Jail last week. Sweaty and determined, the men hardly noticed the police vehicles gaining on them. Just as they were ready to take a moment's rest for breathing, the policeman got out of his vehicle to hand each man a bottle of water for their five mile run. "I think I found a part of my lung I haven't used in a while," said the panting Ronan Chief of Police, David Bennette.

Alongside Special Olympics participant James Black Wolf, members of the Ronan Police and Fire Departments took a day-long relay run last week. The group traveled five miles, by foot, from the Ronan Police Department to the Tribal Police Department in Pablo for a ceremonial passing of the Special Olympics torch.

Several torches throughout the state will be relayed between 600 Montana Law Enforcement representatives before reaching Great Falls on May 14, when Montana's Special Olympics will begin its three-day celebration. Law Enforcement involved will raise money for the event through various community sponsors for their run.

The Ronan Police Department has several t-shirts and hats available for purchase at $15 a piece. If you would like to make donations, contact the Ronan Police Department at 883-7301. For more information on the Montana Special Olympics visit the site www.somt.org.