The 1968 Special Olympics World Summer Games were held Chicago, Illinois, United States, on July 20, 1968. Most of the event was held at Soldier Field, while some of the smaller indoor aspects were held in the Conrad Hilton Hotel. The event was co-sponsored by the Chicago Park District and the Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation.
1,000 athletes from 26 U.S. states, Canada, and France competed in track and swimming.
The athlete's oath was introduced at these games by founder Eunice Shriver at the opening ceremony. The oath is, "Let me win. But if I can not win, let me be brave in the attempt."
Planning and logistics
The inception of the concept for the Special Olympics came from Anne McGlone (now Anne Burke), at the time a physical education teacher working for the Chicago Park District. In 1967, while teaching special needs children, she had the idea to host a citywide track meet for such children.
1,000 athletes from 26 U.S. states, Canada, and France competed in track and swimming. Swimming had two events including 25 meter races, and track and field had four events including 50 yard dash, 300 yard run, and standing long jump. There was also a softball throwing event.
Aftermath
The inaugural event was very modest in comparison to later editions. Only several hundred spectators attended, with most being relatives of competitors. However, there event was nevertheless a successful proof of concept for the Special Olympics movement. The Special Olympics continue to be held, and have significantly expanded in scope.
References
External links
- http://www.specialolympics.org/history.aspx