Standing in a crowd in Turin, Italy – where he represented U.S. law enforcement at the Special Olympics World Winter Games – Hilliard’s Detective Brandon Long could feel the electric energy as the torch finally made its way to the cauldron.
For the past several days, he had been a final leg runner for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the games.
The team of law enforcement officers and Special Olympics athletes from around the world carried the Flame of Hope across Italy, culminating in this moment: the lighting of the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony.
Now, more than 1,500 athletes from 100 delegations would compete in eight sports in an international demonstration of inclusion, acceptance, and unity.
Long, who currently serves as the State Director of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Ohio, called it an unforgettable experience that left a deep emotional impact.
“Seeing athletes from different backgrounds and nations come together in such a positive and celebratory environment was nothing short of inspiring,” he said.
Long been a Hilliard police officer since 2011, leading the Hilliard community’s local torch run among other Special Olympics events. He’s also served as a coach and advocate.
For several previous consecutive days, the runners had completed different legs of the run through Italian mountain towns. During that time, Long connected with law enforcement officers from around the globe who shared the unique privilege. In the process, they raised record-setting levels of $347,000 and counting for Special Olympics.
On one of those days in Sestriere, Italy, Long was invited to speak to the crowd.
“I felt incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to share my thoughts and experiences with my fellow officers and the athletes. The significance of the moment was overwhelming — standing there, knowing the lives we were touching through our participation,” he said. “It was an emotional experience I will never forget.”
Long said the experience was a profound reminder of “why we do what we do in law enforcement — to serve, to protect, and to make a difference.”
“The way they engaged with one another and with local athletes was a testament to the true spirit of inclusion, friendship, and unity,” he said. “It was a moment where you could truly feel the power of sport to break down barriers and create lasting bonds.”
He’s grateful for the support of the City of Hilliard and the Hilliard Bobcats Special Olympics program.
“We cheer from the stands, award medals, and celebrate athletes who inspire us daily. We are advocates for inclusion,” Long said in his speech to the international crowd. “While we wear different uniforms there’s one thing that unite us all: Our heart for service.”
