KEARNEY, Neb. — The Kearney Special Olympics team is heading to the summer games with a smile.

Police officers and paramedics joined the athletes for the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run Wednesday morning. Coach Jenn Behlmann says it’s always one of the highlights of the year.

“The torch run is so exciting because it just means we’re that much closer to state games and they get to interact with the community,” Behlmann said.

The torch run tradition is at least two or three decades old. Investigator Rob Taillon says local law enforcement officers are eager to participate.

“Everybody’s happy. Everybody’s happy on this day. We enjoy each other’s company, we enjoy spending time together," Taillon said. "Again, it’s just another way for us to support the athletes.”

Some walked and some ran. Some were lucky enough to carry the torch. All of the athletes were excited for the summer games. At the end of the run, they loaded the bus for the four-day competition in Omaha.

“Oh they love to compete. But I think more than competing, it’s the opportunity to socialize," Behlmann said. "It’s definitely a competition and of course they love to win, but they just love being there with their peers.”

Kearney Special Olympics will have 43 athletes compete in the summer games.

Kearney Special Olympics organizers say they are always looking for volunteers to help throughout the year.