POUGHKEEPSIE – A group of law enforcement officers and others recently ran through part of Dutchess County, carrying the torch for the New York Special Olympics. Long-time leader of the Dutchess County Law Enforcement Torch Run Chris Hamel, a retired Town of Poughkeepsie police officer passed the torch to his successor before the start, after carrying the torch for 33 years.
While Hamel has decided to step down from the run, he is maintaining his post as Chair of the Polar Plunge.
Special Olympics New York Hudson Valley Representative Teresa Gilli was thrilled with the number of participants. “This event gets bigger every year and we have some tremendous supporters that show up and help us take care of our Special Olympics athletes.”
With Hamel stepping down, Dutchess County Deputy Sheriff Alonzo Montanya, known for colorful running attire, is stepping up to continue the annual run that stretches from Hyde Park into Poughkeepsie, and across the Walkway. “He’s got really big sneakers to fill but Alonzo has a lot of energy and dedication and he will be fantastic,” Gilli said.
October also marked the induction of Chris Hamel into the Special Olympics New York Law Enforcement Hall of Fame while runners gathered to serenade him with “Happy Birthday” to martk another trip around the sun.
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