Former first lady Michelle Obama on Wednesday will visit Los Angeles to posthumously honor Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of the Special Olympics, during the 25th annual ESPY Awards, while retired Dodger broadcaster Vin Scully will recent an Icon Award at the event.
“Eunice Kennedy Shriver was a passionate champion for those with developmental challenges, empowering them to fulfill their highest potential,” Obama said in a statement released by the ESPYs. “Her work to promote inclusion and acceptance transformed the lives of countless young athletes and inspired us all.”
Obama will present the Arthur Ashe Courage Award to Shriver’s son, Timothy, the chairman of Special Olympics.
The Arthur Ashe award is presented to someone “whose contributions transcend sports,” with past recipients including Billie Jean King, Muhammad Ali, Howard Cosell and Jim Valvano.
Meanwhile, Scully will be presented with the Icon Award, which honors people who “have left a lasting impression on the sports world.” Scully, who retired at the end of last season after 67 years behind the mic, will be presented the award by actor Bryan Cranston.
The ESPY Awards will be presented Wednesday night at Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles, hosted by Peyton Manning.
— City News Service