The 2001 Special Olympics marked the 20th year anniversary of the Law Enforement Torch Run. The Torch Run began in Wichita, Kansas, in 1981 when six police officers decided to run through the city to raise money for the Special Olympics. Since that date 20 years ago, over several thousand police officers all over the world have orga-nized Torch Runs to raise millions of dollars for the Special Olympic athletes.

The Redwood City Police Department consistently raises more money in annual donations than any other agency in San Mateo County. One of the most popular events is the "Tip-A-Cop" fundraising event. Officers volunteer their time as waiters/waitresses at local restaurants where all tips recieved by the officers are donated to the Special Olympics.

The 5K Foot Pursuit race is run annually in Redwood Shores, and The Redwood City Police Department’s Special Olympic Torch Run, organized by Officer Dan Smith, proudly carries the torch from our southern border on El Camino to our northern border with San Carlos. Several days later, the Torch makes its way to the Special Olympics.

Efforts are already underway to prepare for 2003. A golf tournament, 5K foot pursuit, Tip-A-Cop, Torch Run, and a Polar Plunge will highlight the 2003 fundraising drive. All money raised by the department is donated to the Special Olympics of Northern California and all time put in by the officers is donated free.