HONORING A HERO
Special Olympics to remember late state trooper Timothy Pratt
Athletes and police will honor late state trooper Timothy Pratt during opening ceremonies for the New York State Special Olympics Summer Games on Friday at Siena College.
Pratt, who worked at the Wilton state police station, was killed in the line of duty after being struck by a car last fall on Ballard Road.
During the memorial service, Capt. Robert Patnaude, acting Troop G commander, will present an award to Pratt’s fiancée, Sue Clark. The honorary medal is being presented on behalf of the International Law Enforcement Torch Run Council for Pratt’s service to Special Olympics New York.
“Tim had been involved in Special Olympics since the early 1990s and over the years really took on a leadership role within the Law Enforcement Torch Run initiative,” Patnaude said. “He did everything, from serving customers at Cops and Lobsters to leading multiple Torch Runs on his infamous motorcycle. He was a great man who loved helping others and did so with a huge heart and smile.”
The public is invited to attend opening ceremonies, free of cost, beginning at 8 p.m. at Siena College athletic field. The ceremonies will feature the customary parade of athletes, a flyover by New York State Police, speakers, entertainment, and police carrying the Flame of Hope, which is used to light official cauldron and declare the 2017 State Summer Games open.
Entertainment will be provided by the Cindy’s Academy of Dance competition team. There will also be a fireworks display.
The Capital Region is hosting the state Games for the first time in 10 years. More than 1,500 athletes and coaches are expected to compete in venues throughout the area.
Athletic competitions will take place Saturday in eight Olympic-style sports. Siena College will serve as the main host and competition site. Other venues are Hudson Valley Community College, University at Albany, The Sage Colleges, World Class Gymnastics in Latham, and Spare Time bowling center.
This marks the first year of a two-year stay at Siena College for the State Summer Games.
“We look forward to welcoming these athletes to our campus and to the Capital Region and to supporting their endeavors as they strive to achieve their best,” Rev. F. Edward Coughlin said.
Volunteers are still needed. Anyone interested in helping can register at: specialolympicsny.org.
Pratt, who worked at the Wilton state police station, was killed in the line of duty after being struck by a car last fall on Ballard Road.