Members of the Final Leg Law Enforcement Torch Run make their way onto the track at McCarthy Middle School on Tuesday, June 4, to help kick off Special Olympics Massachusetts Unified Game Day for Chelmsford Public Schools.
by Jen Oemig
CHELMSFORD – Members of Special Olympics Massachusetts and the Final Leg Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) stopped by McCarthy Middle School on Tuesday, June 4, to help kick off Unified Game Day for Chelmsford Public Schools.
This was the second year CPS has hosted a Special Olympics Massachusetts Unified Game Day, following a trial run in 2023.
“We are thrilled to be here for this inclusive event that focuses on leadership, good sportsmanship, community building and, most importantly, having fun,” said Katie Simes, the health, physical education and consumer sciences coordinator for Chelmsford Public Schools.
LETR member Kerry Baxter, a sergeant with the Carlisle Police Department and Chelmsford High School alum, has been involved with Special Olympics since she began her career in law enforcement over 20 years ago.
Law Enforcement Torch Run member Kerry Baxter, a sergeant with the Carlisle Police Department and Chelmsford High School alum, speaks to those gathered at McCarthy Middle School.
“The most amazing thing here is helping us help these athletes feel part of an organization that allows them to be who they are and focuses on inclusion,” she said.
Special Olympics athlete Deidre “Dee” Cotter joined the organization in September 2015.
“Special Olympics has impacted me greatly,” she said. “I enjoy people from the different teams improving my skills and the great sportsmanship.”
In 2022, Ms. Cotter had the opportunity to participate in the Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando, Florida, and earned several medals.
“It was a spectacular experience that I’ll always remember,” she said.
When she was asked to participate in the Final Leg, Ms. Cotter said she was excited and thrilled.
“I enjoy meeting people and exploring new places,” she said. “The Final Leg Law Enforcement Torch Run is a wonderful opportunity to let many people know what is special about Special Olympics.”
After the opening ceremonies, students from all of Chelmsford’s schools rotated in groups through various stations at the McCarthy venue.
Those stations included activities like bean bag toss, high jump, relays, Frisbee throwing, long jump, shot put and an obstacle course.
