World's largest peace torch run passes through Plains

An international team representing seven countries passed through Sanders County this past week as part of the world's largest Peace Run, a four-month, 10,000-mile relay through all 50 states commemorating America's 250th anniversary.

The team's day began in Hope, Idaho, before crossing into Montana and making stops in Thompson Falls and Plains. While in Plains, Australian runner Tavishi Mathews passed the Peace Torch to Plains Mayor Chris Allen, who then handed it to Plains High School juniors Owen Jermyn and Cord Greer to carry through town.

The relay began in New York in April and will visit all 50 states before concluding in New York in August.

During the torch ceremony, Mayor Allen welcomed the international runners and reflected on their journey.

"It is an amazing opportunity to get out and see this country and see what this country is about," Allen said. "It is a little different than what you see on the news. There are a lot of real and great people across this country."

Volunteer runner Owen Jermyn said he enjoyed participating in the event.

"It was fun to do this and support the Betterment Society," Jermyn said.

Following the run through Plains, Jermyn added, "This is a really good way to show the American spirit and to show how much this country is important to other people all around the world."

Greer said he was proud to take part in the Peace Run.

Since its inaugural relay in 1987, more than 7 million people have participated in the Peace Run. During the past four decades, the event has traveled through more than 160 nations, promoting friendship, goodwill, and international understanding.

The Peace Run was inspired by spiritual leader Sri Chinmoy, who once said, "How can we have peace? Not by talking about peace, but by walking along the road of peace."

After departing Plains, the international team continued east to its next stop in St. Regis.

Plains Mayor Chris Allen accepts the 2026 Peace Run Torch from Australian Tavishi Mathews, a member of the International Peace Run Team. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
Tracy Scott

Plains Mayor Chris Allen and Plains High School juniors Cord Greer and Owen Jermyn team up with runners with the SRI Chinmoy Peace Run. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
Tracy Scott