Down Syndrome Triathlete Makes Ironman History
A man with Down syndrome has defied the odds after completing a gruelling Ironman triathlon.
Last Saturday, 7 November, Chris Nikic of Maitland, Florida partook in the Ironman Florida competition in Panama City Beach, which saw him swimming 3.8 kilometres, cycling 180 kilometres, and running a 42-kilometre marathon.
The 21-year-old completed the race in 16 hours 46 minutes and 9 seconds – 14 minutes under the 17-hour cutoff time.
Not only did Nikic become the first competitor with Down syndrome to successfully cross the finish line, but he also earned himself a Guinness World Record by becoming the first person with the genetic disorder to finish a Ironman triathlon.
Nikic’s father, Nik, praised his achievement, saying: “Ironman has served as [my son’s] platform to become one step closer to his goal of living a life of inclusion, normalcy and leadership.”
He added: “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.”
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