Special Olympics Torch Run hits Sarasota streets on Friday

City and county law enforcement officers on Friday morning will carry the torch for Special Olympics along Tamiami Trail and downtown streets.

Deputies from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office will begin around 8 a.m. at Gulf Gate Pavilion and pass the torch along the way to city police officers around 9 a.m. at Bee Ridge Road. From there, officers will carry the torch through the city to a culmination on the bayfront.

Officials ask drivers along the route to pay particular attention for potential traffic delays. Drivers might want to allow for extra time or avoid the route

Officers in Manatee County participated in their own relay last week, as did officers in the southern sections of Sarasota County.

More than 300 agencies in 67 counties are expected to participate in this year’s Torch Run, which generates donations to support Special Olympics.

The statewide Torch Run comes to an end on May 16 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista. A selection of officers from around the state will carry the torch into the stadium to kick the event.