The second of my two runs for Special Olympics was a real treat. The organizers are very smart, choosing two popular locations in Las Vegas for the runs.
There are challenges with running in Downtown Las Vegas. And while this race didn’t escape those challenges, they did leverage Downtown’s assets to the maximum, which made the race an impressive experience.
Event Logistics and Pre-Race Experience
There was no pre-run packet pickup. Runners met on the back side of City Hall downtown. The volunteers were more insistent about filling out a bib on why you ran. Shirts were present, but they weren’t asking about them. Maybe that’s because I rolled up already wearing mine. Again, a great race for runners who don’t like a lot of swag.
We were led in a warm-up by a Special Olympics athlete, which was great. We really knew who we were running for and with. We sang the National Anthem, and the torch was lit.
We assembled into two lines running parallel, behind the flags for the State of Nevada and the Special Olympics.
Special Olympics Downtown Torch Run
We were escorted onto Main Street with a motorcycle contingent, and protected in the back with a squad car chaser. About a third of a mile north, we turned on to Fremont Street and ran under the canopy. Since it was early, there were no performers or crowds, so nice, easy running.
The big deal was that the Torch Run was displayed all along the Fremont Street Canopy, with tons of photos of Special Olympic athletes. Even the small digital signs nearer to eye level had Torch Run graphics.
We passed through Fremont east and turned south on 7th Street, then back on Clark to City Hall. This loop was 1.7 miles, so doubling would have made it a 5k.
The organizers shared that you could do one or two loops in advance. Since the pace leader had mentioned an 11-minute mile, and I’m currently running a 15-minute mile, I stopped at one loop.
Post-Race
The Knights of Columbus hosted a cookout upon our return. Other vendors were there to support as well, including Chameleon Sounds DJ, Dave & Busters, and Raising Cane’s. It was nice to see the community support for this great cause.
One small item is parking – the best parking is at the city’s lot right across the street from the start/finish. So add $6 for parking to the costs for the day. A small price to support Special Olympics.
If I had to choose the Torch Run on the Strip or Downtown, I’d say Downtown. The event being plastered on the Fremont Street Canopy is truly stunning, and being able to break while you still have energy was an extra bonus.
