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He noted that of all the many fund-raising events which were organised to support the Special Olympics, the Torch Run attracted most participants.
It received the wide support of law enforcement departments in a growing number of countries, he said.
Mr Lai commended Hong Kong's disciplinary forces for having a fine reputation for community service.
"We see evidence of that today with large numbers of them joining hands to raise funds for this very worthwhile cause," he said.
Teams made up of staff of the Royal Hong Kong Police Force, Customs and Excise, Correctional Services, Fire Services and Immigration departments took part in the three-kilometre Torch Run.
The Royal Hong Kong Police Pipe Band and the Government Flying Services gave performances, while the Fire Services Department put up a water display at a fire boat.
Although the Torch Run was on a smaller scale than international runs which ended with the lighting of the flame at the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics, Mr Lai said, it was nonetheless a great success.
The money raised from the Torch Run this year will provide support for more than 25,000 mentally handicapped persons to join the year-round sports training and competitions.
The fund can also support the Hong Kong team to take part in the Paralympics Games in Atlanta, United States, this August, the Asia Pacific Special Olympics in Shanghai, China, this November and the World Special Olympics Winter Games in Toronto, Canada, in February 1997.
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