The passing of Eunice Kennedy Shriver brought back many memories of one of the premiere events ever held at the Metrodome.

In July 1990, the Special Olympics were held in Minnesota. The opening ceremonies brought athletes from throughout the world to celebrate this marvelous opportunity to compete. Under the local leadership of Irwin Jacobs and Roy Smalley, the games went off spectacularly.

The emotional highlight remains the opening ceremonies. It is truly due to the leadership and vision of Eunice Kennedy Shriver that, since its inception, hundreds of thousands of disabled athletes have had an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and abilities.

Fast-forward to 2009. I am now the head coach of the Maplewood Monarchs Special Olympics Basketball Team.

I get the opportunity to work firsthand with terrific people and athletes who have moved past their disabilities and compete with the best other teams have to offer. The spark was lit during the opening ceremonies on July 6, 1990, in the Metrodome.

More than 40,000 family members and fans stood, applauded and wept as the athletes marched out of the tunnel onto the field. Each delegation followed their country's flag basking in the thunderous cheers that reverberated through the stadium. Hats off to Eunice Kennedy Shriver, whose vision, tenacity and chutzpah gave birth to this continuing miracle that is Special Olympics.

BILL LESTER, MINNEAPOLIS;

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, METROPOLITAN SPORTS FACILITIES COMMISSION