Special Olympics Gets Underway With Opening Ceremony At Soldier Field

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Thousands with special needs worked for months to get ready for the big event this week.

The official torch lighting opened the Chicago area Special Olympics Monday. CBS 2's Marissa Bailey was there as the excitement builds for a big week.

3,500 of the most special athletes in Chicago paraded into Soldier Field today for the 47th Annual Special Olympics, with White Sox mascot South Paw was among the many there to praise the hard work of the athletes.

Teachers, volunteers and parents are all there to make sure each and every person pushes themselves to be their best.

Keesha Henderson from Simeon Career Academy says it, "makes them feel just like everyone else, how they're supposed to feel."

"I get to stand out with the other kids and walk up on the runway," said Martia Sydney.

The first international Special Olympics was held at Soldier Field back in 1968 and the excitement today is the same as it was years ago.

"They like to get together with their peers... they love competition and it's just a lot of fun all week long," said Southside Occupational Academy High School Michiko Amos.

White Sox pitcher Jeff Samardzija has been named the "honorary" coach.

Athletes compete in 31 different events. The games run through Friday at Eckersall Stadium. The public is invited to attend. Winners then compete in the state games in June.