The Illinois Special Olympics turned a boisterous 40 years old Tuesday, the extravaganza being a far cry from 1968, when the event began in one area of the state with 1,000 athletes.

The competition is now held in 17 areas. Over the next three days more than 2,600 people will be competing in 23 different events in Chicago. More than 21,000 participants compete across the state.   

Hundreds of volunteers from a variety of backgrounds and organizations helped kick off the opening ceremony and festivities at Soldier Field.  The volunteers spent months in advance physically training and emotionally preparing the participants for the week’s athletics. 

The Special Olympics partnered with the Chicago Park District to coordinate the event. The Chicago Police and Fire Departments donate their time to helping the disabled as well.

Ashley Bennett, an employee of the Anixter Center, is one of the many coaches who help to make the Special Olympics a success. Anixter Center provides employment skills, health care and recreation to low income individuals who are developmentally delayed. Bennett said she felt great about having the opportunity to help out.

“You feel like your job is worthwhile.  I feel like I’m actually doing something to help other people,” she said. 

Mascots from some of the Chicago sports teams took the field where each school was individually announced.  Wayne Messmer, voice of multiple professional teams, including the Cubs, sang the National Anthem.

Joe Roccasalva, Chicago Fire Department deputy district chief, said it was an honor to be chosen as the grand marshal of the parade.

“It was kind of humbling watching these kids march through the stadium.  They love firemen.  I think it brings them a lot of happiness to see us there with them,” he said. Roccasalva quickly pointed out that he is only one of many firefighters and police officers who dedicate their time to the program.

Coach Mayra Lopez works at El Valor Company, a nonprofit community organization that trains adults with disabilities who are 19 and over. 

“I believe these people are very special and they can accomplish a lot if we have the right people assisting them and directing them.  It’s a good feeling you get inside giving back to the community,” Lopez said. 

Nicole Berry, a marketing specialist in the communications department for the Chicago Park District, emphasized the importance of this being an anniversary for the games.

“It’s all just one big happy family, and we look forward to it every year,” Berry said. “And this year being the 40^th anniversary makes it very special.”

Bob Pickens, vice president of the Chicago Park District Board, addressed the enthusiastic crowd of thousands of parents, volunteers and children and adults with disabilities.

“We are all winners, no losers,” Pickens said. "You are a winner by being here."