Special Olympics Torch Run Through Austria with New York State Trooper Neil Case
31 cities, 50 miles, 10 days and memories that'll last a lifetime for New York State Trooper Neil Case who carried the Flame of Hope at the Special Olympics in Austria.
Trooper Case was part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics World Winter Games. "It was amazing to see 84 officers from 23 different countries all supporting the Special Olympics athletes and delivering the Flame of Hope to the Opening Ceremonies," says Case.
The Special Olympics holds a special place in Trooper Case’s heart as his son Josh has Down Syndrome, making the torch run very emotional . "An officer and athlete spoke after each run, declaring their love and devotion to the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics. The awareness and excitement generated was like none other."
Case met up with all of the athletes representing New York State, including Jordan Schachtler from Clinton. "They are all doing great and are excited to compete. I wish I was able to stay and cheer them on, but I'm sure will do great."
Trooper case attended the opening ceremonies but had to head back to central New York.
See highlights of Trooper Case's Torch Run in the video above and check out the cities he ran through below.
Torch Run:
Day 1 - Bregenz, Dornbirn, and Feldkirch
Day 2 - Kitzbühel, Wörgl, Hall in Tyrol, and Innsbruck
Day 3 - Hallein and Salzburg
Day 4 - Bad Ischl, Gmunden, Vöcklabruck, and Linz
Day 5 - St. Pölten, Ybbs an der Donau, Krems, Mödling, and Baden
Day 6 - Schönbrunn Ringstrasse, and Uniqa
Day 7 - Bruck an der Mur, Leoben, Knittelfeld, and Lannach
Day 8 - Villach and Klagenfurt
Day 9 - Graz. Austria