Running With Fire: Gregory Ferry’s Journey with the Special Olympics
The Torch Run — that’s how Captain Gregory Ferry of Hooksett first got involved with the Special Olympics.
The Law Enforcement Torch Run includes officers and Special Olympics athletes who run all across New Hampshire, for a total distance of 550 miles. With them, they carry the “Flame of Hope,” a symbol of courage and a celebration of diversity.
In 35 years, the New Hampshire Torch Run has raised more than $5.5 million dollars for the Special Olympics — for 25 of those years, Ferry was at its helm.
After 17 years of participating in the Torch Run, Ferry decided he wanted to do more, and he was chosen as the State Police Liaison to the Special Olympics. As a liaison, he expanded law enforcement’s participation in the Summer and Winter Special Olympics Games, and increased fundraising efforts (including throwing a costume contest fundraiser).
In 2019, he was selected to represent New Hampshire at the 2019 Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi, where he participated in a Torch Run across the United Arab Emirates.
But for Ferry, the best part of the Special Olympics is the incredible relationships that he has built. Both he and his fellow officers have gotten to know the athletes that they work with. Though he already knew one of those athletes pretty well — his daughter Jillian.
I’m proud to name Captain Gregory Ferry as November’s Granite Stater of the Month. He serves New Hampshire, not only as a public safety officer, but as a friend to all. His work truly demonstrates what it means to be a dedicated public servant.
