Chris Nikic has set a new world record by becoming the first person with Down's Syndrome to complete a triathlon. The 21-year-old from Florida completed the race last week in a time of 16 hours 46 minutes and 9 seconds.
A Triathlon is truly a feat of superhuman endurance and involves a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile cycling and a full 26.2 mile marathon, and that's without taking a break. The accomplishment has truly broken down barriers and the heroic athlete even gifted his winner's medal to his mum. It will also now be recorded in the official Guinness World Records.
A post shared by Chris Nikic (@chrisnikic)
"Being the first person with Down's Syndrome is a great feeling. I can prove to kids that if I can do it, they can do it, too."
While his father added:
"We want people to realise earlier that their child is a blessing, and they can live an amazing life. To Chris, this race was more than just a finish line and celebration of victory. Ironman has served as his platform to become one step closer to his goal of living a life of inclusion, normalcy, and leadership. It's about being an example to other kids and families that face similar barriers, proving no dream or goal is too high… If Chris can do an Ironman, he can do anything."
The official Ironman Triathlon Organisation also tweeted their congratulations:
"You have shattered barriers while proving without a doubt that anything is possible. We are beyond inspired, and your accomplishment is a defining moment in Ironman history that can never be taken away from you."
Nikic had trained for years to enter the Ironman and, not long before the race, he was putting in between 4 and 6 hours of training every single day. His actions are a testament to what anyone can achieve if they put their mind to it and the ability of anyone to overcome an obstacle if enough work is put in.
He now hopes to win a place at the 2022 Special Olympics, which will be held in his home state in the city of Orlando.
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