Torch Run with the Special Olympics

On Thursday my uncle Dean carried the World Special Olympics torch on its journey through part of Washington, making its way to Los Angeles. 

A little info on my uncle. Dean Sutton began competing in the Special Olympics at the age of 21. Since then he has medaled in competitions nearly 300 times. Dean has attended the world games 3 times, receiving the silver in shot put ('87, Notre Dame), gold in team handball ('91, Minneapolis), another silver in team handball ('99, North Carolina) and was the top team handball goalie in '91.  

Dean is a great uncle and friend. When his sister asked about having his friend and fellow athlete Sean Tollefson carry the torch as well he thought it was a great idea! With the addition of his beautiful wife Heather, Sean's parents and some equally amazing family the group was set for a march in the unusually hot Washington weather. 

A surprise was seeing the LAPD on the route. They are escorting the flame on its journey to Southern California. No word on if there was a rumble with local police, but from what I saw they seemed to get along just swimmingly. 

It was a fun time indeed. Everyone made it to the end with a sweaty brow and a smile on their face. It was on to dinner and laughs with a great group of people. 

Congrats again Dean!