The Torch Run Final Leg will begin in northern Idaho and cover multiple cities, towns and communities en route to the opening ceremonies of the World Winter Special Olympics in Nampa, Idaho on Feb. 7. The run will include 100 runners from around the world - one runner from each state and one from 50 other countries.

Runners for the Final Leg are all current or retired law enforcement members who were selected based on their established dedication and commitment to Special Olympics and the Torch Run. Each runner must be able to maintain a pace of 10 minutes per mile for three miles, as well as have the stamina to run five miles over two or more intervals during the course of a day.

Sweeney has been an active supporter of the Special Olympics and the Torch Run for 11 years. He enlisted with the MSP in 1995, and is a graduate of the 113th Trooper Recruit School. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University. He resides in Rockford with his wife, Teri, and their four children.

Sweeney received the MSP Trooper of the Year Award in 2000 and the West Michigan Crime Practitioner of the Year Award in 2002. He is currently assigned to the Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division where he serves as Citizen Corps Coordinator.