Chicago Bears J’Marcus Webb celebrate opening ceremonies of the 45th Annual Special Olympics Spring Games at Soldier Field
Thousands of athletes, spectators and volunteers marched Soldier Field to celebrate the official opening of the 45th annual Special Olympics Spring Games, on May 7 . Chicago Bears offensive tackle J’Marcus Webb served as Honorary Coach for the day, and declared the official opening of the Spring Games, which included more than 25 track and field events. Several of the athletes who participated in the very first Special Olympics Games 45 years ago, returned to where it all began for the celebration. The Olympic Torch was carried onto the field by students from Vaughn High School, recent winners of the Keith Magnuson Sprit Award. Special Olympics Chicago president, Jen Kramer, was awarded the Anne McGlone Burke Award for her tireless service dedication to Special Olympics programs and athletes. Special Olympics began in the city of Chicago during the summer of 1968 at Soldier Field. It has now become a world-wide movement with more than four million athletes in 170 countries participating.
Photo Credit: Tracy Collings
