Special Olympics torch passes through Colorado Springs

The Special Olympics Flame of Hope made its way through Colorado Springs on Friday.

It’s part of a weeklong tour in Colorado ahead of the 2015 World Games in Los Angeles.

The torch is being carried in all 50 states for the Unified Relay Across America.

“It’s very exciting to be part of history. It’s an honor to be carrying the torch,” said Tim Sharpe, a Special Olympic athlete. “It’s exciting to be here with my team.”

Local athletes took turns carrying the flame through downtown Colorado Springs with support from a four-time Olympian.

“They are all amazing athletes in their sports, and the level of excitement is building,” said Olympic triathleteHunter Kemper, who took part in the torch relay. “I’m a Toyota athlete. Toyota is all about inclusion and diversity, and so am I, and that’s what the Special Olympics are all about.”

The relay sparked excitement for local athletes and raised awareness about their abilities.

“It was amazing carrying the torch,” said Sharpe, a volleyball and softball player. “It was heavy, but we made it.”

Kemper said he was proud to march with such talented athletes.

“I know the dedication that it takes in order to train in an Olympics, and so do these athletes,” he said. “They have to dedicate their lives in order to prepare and to do well at the World Games.”

Thousands of athletes from around the world will compete in the 2015 World Games in Los Angeles. The games begin on July 25.