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The Montana Special Olympics torch made its way to Bozeman for the 2011 Summer Games Tuesday.

Since April 26, the torch has exchanged hands across 2,000 miles of Big Sky Country.

Law enforcement officers have been holding the torch run since 1985. Multiple agencies participated Tuesday, running legs in Three Forks, Manhattan, Belgrade and wrapping up in Bozeman.

The squad ran from Lindley Park to Main Street, turned South at 19th Avenue, ending with a flourish and a barbeque at the new Gallatin County Detention Center.

The officers ran in support of the athletes-yet each say they're inspired by the other.

"You can see the smiles on each and every cop," said athlete Julie Bertelsen. "Rain or shine or snow, they do anything! They bike, they run, they jump!"

"It's a pretty neat experience to be able to carry the torch and run past the athletes and they're proud of the start of the games and they're ready to go," said Gallatin County Deputy Sheriff Kelly Munter.

Events start Wednesday as early 8 AM and run to 4:30 in the afternoon. The torch takes its final lap at about 5:45 PM at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse. The Opening Ceremonies program, including the Parade of Athletes begins at 7 PM inside the Breeden Fieldhouse.

Related Links:

2011 Summer Games Schedule