From August 29, 2024, to September 1, 2024, the first European LETR (Law Enforcement Torch Run) Conference took place in Gibraltar. Representing Switzerland, Sandro Winter from the St.Gallen City Police participated in the assembly. LETR Switzerland is part of IPA Switzerland, which stands for International Police Association. The IPA is a worldwide association to promote exchange and friendship among police officers. Since 2022, Sandro has held the position of LETR Coordinator for Switzerland, thus serving as the link between Special Olympics, the Swiss police landscape, and the international LETR organization. LETR itself is committed to helping Special Olympics and all its athletes gain greater presence and visibility, generating donations, and promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities. This is primarily achieved through the organization and execution of torch runs during national and international Special Olympics competitions. <\/p>\n\n
The Law Enforcement Torch Run was launched in the USA in 1981 and has been growing steadily ever since, primarily in English-speaking and Anglo-Saxon countries. In Europe, only a handful of countries currently have an LETR program, which made it all the more exciting to meet and exchange ideas at a conference. Besides Switzerland, police officers from the Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Croatia, Cyprus, and Gibraltar were represented. <\/p>\n\n
After a flight of just over two hours from Zurich to Malaga (ESP), I met the first conference participants, and together we embarked on the approximately two-hour car journey to Gibraltar. Already at the border, we were warmly welcomed by the local police and escorted to our accommodation in the south of the country. Gradually, the other participants arrived, and during dinner, we began to get acquainted. <\/p>\n\n
The next day was entirely dedicated to the actual conference. In the morning, each country introduced itself and presented how LETR is structured in their respective country, along with any difficulties or peculiarities. A significant difference between Europe and the USA emerged. In the USA, funds are raised for Special Olympics on a large scale and with many original ideas. However, this is largely prohibited or frowned upon for the police in Europe. There is also still a significant knowledge gap regarding what Special Olympics actually is and why the police are specifically involved in the LETR program. This also formulated the conference’s goal for this year: to maintain the programs in the represented countries and to gain two to three more countries by the next conference. <\/p>\n\n
In the afternoon, a video call was organized for us with the Social Media Manager of LETR International, who provided us with important input on how to increase our respective reach on social media. Additionally, alternative solutions for fundraising, as well as collaboration with partners and sponsors, were discussed. <\/p>\n\n
Finally, we were introduced to Annie Risso, founder of Special Olympics Gibraltar, who brought Ivan Mannion Gomez and Francis Mauro as Athletic Leaders and thus spokespersons and representatives for the Gibraltar team. The subsequent speeches can rightly be considered the highlight of the day. They showed us why we volunteer for Special Olympics and what the LETR program means for all athletes. It was about the pride of standing side by side with the police, presenting one’s country, one’s abilities, one’s sport, and being part of something bigger. Both athletes reported on their international assignments, the experiences gained, the medals won, and the joy of sport and competition. For me personally, it was inspiring and an incentive for our national LETR program in Switzerland. <\/p>\n\n
After a cozy and delicious tapas dinner and a humid night, the next day we went to the football pitch, which was located right next to the airport runway. A match was scheduled between the Special Olympics Gibraltar football team and LETR Europe. I think “schooled” best describes the course of the game. It was played in a 5 vs. 5 format, although we sometimes had two more players on the field and were still trailing. In the end, we agreed on a draw, as the joy of playing and physical activity were central. Interesting fact: due to a lack of opponents, the Special Olympics Gibraltar team plays in the regular second division league. <\/p>\n\n
After a refreshing shower, we went on a sightseeing tour around Gibraltar in the afternoon. This primarily meant going up “The Rock,” the prominent rock at the foot of which Gibraltar lies. Accompanied again by representatives of the local LETR program, we visited St. Michael’s Cave, a natural limestone cave with an impressive light show inside. In one part of the cave, there’s even a grandstand where various concerts and performances take place throughout the year. Gibraltar has a turbulent past, largely shaped by military events. For generations, various countries, but mostly Spain, attempted to conquer Gibraltar. The peninsula holds an important strategic position in the Mediterranean, of which the British were well aware. It’s therefore not surprising that there are over 70 km of tunnels and passages within the rock. The first ones were blasted out of the rock in the 18th century and equipped with naval cannons, while during World War II, they were massively expanded and reinforced with various artillery pieces. <\/p>\n\n
However, Gibraltar is also known for something entirely different: its wild Barbary macaque population. These animals can be found all over the Rock, and they are not shy about coming directly into your vehicle. Especially if there’s a tasty apple from breakfast inside. <\/p>\n\n
After an entertaining evening at the harbor, the last day already dawned. It was time to say goodbye and head home. I look back on warm and helpful people. The LETR Gibraltar team took care of us in every conceivable way; we felt like friends, not just guests. The encounters with the Special Olympics athletes left a lasting impression on me and showed me once again what role Special Olympics plays and how important it is in our society, or rather, what contribution it makes to the inclusion of people with disabilities. <\/p>\n\n