The Special Olympics Summer Games kick off Friday at the University of New Hampshire in Durham.
The Special Olympics flame made its way through Concord on Wednesday.
Kerry Morency of Derry had the honor of lighting the Special Olympics flame in the State House Plaza.
She’s been involved in Special Olympics since she was 12, and says she enjoys the camaraderie and the competition.
“Just having new friends, meeting new friends, old friends, and competing for the gold. Definitely for the gold medal.”
The stop in Concord was part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run.
Officers are carrying the flame across 800 miles of the Granite State, making its way to UNH on Friday.
New Hampshire Special Olympics President Mary Conroy says many of the athletes were never given the chance to compete.
“I think through sport, people with intellectual disability have a greater chance for gainful employment, they have a greater chance at a healthier life, and I think that they learn those great attributes of sport.”
Nearly 1,000 athletes are expected to take part in the games.
