The Ironman World Championship is a grueling triathlon: a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run in under 17 hours.
Only the world's best athletes can even complete the challenge, and now Chris Nikic can count himself among that elite group. What makes Nikic unique though is that he has Down syndrome, a first for the Ironman World Championship.
The event took place in Kailuna-Kona, Hawaii, and Nikic completed the event in 16 hours, 31 minutes, and 27 seconds.
His trainer Dan Grieb has stayed by his side in these events since 2020.
He was motivated to compete in these events because he wanted to inspire others with Down syndrome like him.
"I rarely saw anyone who looks like me in mainstream sports. And now, we're changing that," Nikic said. "Running changed my life, but now I want everyone like me to see it's possible for them, too."
Try not to be inspired watching his Adidas spot:
Nikic is also the first athlete with Down syndrome to complete the New York City Marathon in 2021 and the Florida Ironman triathlon in 2020.
He's overcome a lot more than marathons and triathlons; he's also had multiple heart surgeries, ear surgeries, and chronic infections — not to mention few believing in him. But he keeps pushing forward with his motto, "1% better everyday."
I can't wait to see what challenge he overcomes next.
Thanks to Not the Bee user @nolivingmanami for the heads up about this inspirational young man!
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