Shawnee residents gathered Sunday afternoon at Shawnee Town 1929 for the 14th annual Law Enforcement Torch Run pull‑the‑vehicle challenge, a fundraiser that supports Special Olympics Kansas. Six teams – four from local fire and police departments and two community groups – competed to pull a Shawnee Fire Department fire truck 50 feet and a Shawnee Police Department tactical vehicle 75 feet through the parking lot.
Friendly competition fuels charitable giving
There was no set limit on the number of participants per team, but each team’s combined weight could not exceed 1,500 pounds. The event highlighted the camaraderie and good‑natured rivalry between the city’s first‑responders. “I like that it gets people out here, and it brings awareness to Special Olympics. It kind of plays on the police/fire rivalry. We like to have fun with that,” said Captain Matt Seichepine of the Shawnee Police Department.
Bridget Dorr, a Kansas City, Kansas resident whose sister Rosemary competes in Special Olympics, praised the community’s support. “These cops and firemen are out there all the time supporting these athletes. It’s just amazing as a family member to see people who don’t have that in their life support it. It’s our norm, but it’s their choice,” she said.
Teams motivated by athletes’ smiles
Seth Mullis, chief of the Johnson County Community College (JCCC) Police Department, entered his team after seeing the Special Olympics athletes up close. “We love that the athletes are sitting right up front. Nothing motivates you more than seeing the smiles on their faces,” he explained.
Leo Santizo, a JCCC police officer, added a competitive edge, noting, “We’re here for fun — as long as we beat the Shawnee Police Department.” The friendly rivalry kept the atmosphere lively, with spectators cheering each pull.
Shawnee Fire Department takes the win
In the end, the Shawnee Fire Department secured victory, completing both pulls in a combined time of 23.46 seconds. While the fire department earned the trophy, Special Olympics Kansas was the true winner, as the event generated $9,050 for its athletes and programs.
Organizers said the funds will help cover travel costs, equipment, and training for Kansas athletes preparing for regional and national competitions. The event also serves as a visible reminder of the community’s commitment to inclusion and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Looking ahead
Event planners hope to expand participation next year, inviting more community groups and possibly adding additional vehicle challenges. The continued partnership between local first‑responders and the Special Olympics organization underscores Shawnee’s dedication to fostering a caring, active community rooted in shared values and service.
Photos from the day capture the excitement of the pulls, the smiling faces of the Special Olympics athletes, and the proud members of Shawnee’s fire and police departments working side by side for a common cause.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
