22c Winter Special Olympics stamp

A 22-cent stamp commemorating the Winter Special Olympics was issued March 25, 1985 in Park City, Utah. The dedication ceremony was held at the Yarrow Hotel.

In 1968, the Chicago Park District and the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr., Foundation sponsored the First International Special Olympics Games for one thousand participants. Since then, it has grown into the largest program for sports training and athletic competition in the world for mentally challenged people. With the assistance of 550,000 volunteers worldwide, more than 1,000,000 "special" children and adults participate in year-round athletic programs.

In 1972, ice skating became the first winter sport to be added to the roster of Special Olympics events. At that time there were only a few participants. By 1977, winter sports competition had grown to the stage where it was possible to hold International Winter Games. Along with the addition of more participants ahs come the inclusion of more sports. The athletes not only compete in ice skating, but also figure skating, speed skating and numerous alpine and cross country skiing events.

Reference: Postal Bulletin (March 28, 1985)

Scott Catalogue USA: 2142
mint

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Museum ID: 1999.2004.429