Special Olympics Torch Passes Through Hamden [Video]

Ushered by a police escort and the encouragement of residents' cheers and beeping horns, Hamden police officers joined forces with Connecticut Special Olympic athletes to carry the ceremonial burning torch to New Haven.

The run through Hamden was part of Leg 7 of a coordinated state-wide effort that coincides with the start of Connecticut Special Olympics, which began in New Haven today and will continue through the weekend.

Medals have already been won. Paul Brady of Team North Haven was sporting his silver medal that he won in the power walk. And John Brixner, of Team Hamden New Haven, won a silver in the 200-meter run.

Both said they were looking forward to a fun weekend of healthy competition.

Meanwhile, members of the Hamden Police Department were happy to once again be involved in the effort. Det. Ray Quinn, a 14-year veteran of the department, ran the five miles from Cheshire to Hamden. And while it was hot, the Waterbury resident said it was well worth it.

Leg 7 Coordinator and Berlin Police Lt. Jim Gosselin summed it up this way: "It's been a good day. It's been an awesome time and the officers have been great ... and the Special Olympians, awesome as usual."