55 years ago today, about 1,000 children with disabilities competed in the first Special Olympics at Soldier Field. The seed planted in Chicago grew rapidly. Berlin hosted the Special Olympics World Games last month with more than 6,500 athletes.
Ed Kelly unveils a bronze plaque at Soldier Field on May 10, 1984, honoring the site of the first Special Olympics in 1968.
The first competition drew athletes from 26 states — the start of a program that would grow over 55 years to serve more than 6 million athletes and partners in more than 190 countries and territories.Eunice Kennedy Shriver, bottom left, executive vice president of the Joseph Kennedy Jr. Foundation, feels the muscle of athlete Robert Larman, 13, during the inaugural Chicago Special Olympics on July 20, 1968, at Soldier Field in Chicago.
More than 1,000 participants competed in 200 events, including the 50-yard dash, 300-yard run, high jump, broad jump, baseball throw, field hockey and swimming races. Michael"Moose" Cusack carries the torch around the track at the University of Chicago's Stagg Field during the Special Olympics opening ceremony on May 11, 1988, in Chicago.The Vintage Tribune newsletter is a deep dive into the Chicago Tribune's archives featuring photos and stories about the people, places and events that shape the city's past, present and future.
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