Wausau Police Officer to Carry the Flame of Hope for the Opening of Special Olympics World Winter Games in Italy

Friday, March 7th, 2025 -- 8:01 AM

As announced a few weeks back, Wausau Police Department Lt. Nate Stetzer was selected to carry the Flame of Hope as part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) Final Leg for the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy.

He has since safely arrived in Italy and joined the LETR team as they ran the flame through several cities in the Italian Alps on their way to Turin. Lt. Stetzer and others will carry the Flame of Hope into the opening ceremony of the games on March 8th.

The ceremony will be broadcast on ESPN. Special Olympics strives to create a better world by fostering the acceptance and inclusion of all people. Special Olympics’ motto is “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

The Department is regularly inspired by the courage & camaraderie of the athletes. The Department is proud to see Lt. Stetzer selected to represent law enforcement and the Wausau community on a world stage.

The Department’s long-standing commitment to supporting Special Olympics Wisconsin is a fulfillment of their mission to “…partner with others to enhance the quality of life” in Wausau.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.