Special Olympics Florida started its yearly ritual for law enforcement officers and supporters at St. Pete Police headquarters in downtown St. Petersburg.

The torch, also know as the Flame of Hope, was lit just moments before the first leg of the run began. 

The Law Enforcement Torch Run signifies the launch of the summer games, which will be held at Disney World's Wide World of Sports. The competition begins on May 18th.

The first crew completed a four mile course that ended at New Heights Elementary school. Youths from the school cheered and rallied for the group as they passed. From there, the second leg picked up and continued on to US-19 where they ended at Nina Harris reception.

From Pinellas, the Flame of Hope made it all the way to Paul B. Stephens School in Clearwater. After five handoffs and countless miles, students from the school welcomed runners to the finish line.