Chris Nikic Is First Athlete With Down Syndrome To Finish Ironman World Championship
October 10, 2022
There was not a dry eye in the house after Chris Nikic became the first person with Down Syndrome to finish the Ironman World Championship triathlon in Kona Friday night.
Chris Nikic / @chrisnikic
With help of his volunteer guide, Dan Grieb, Nikic completed the 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run in 16 hours, 31 minutes and 27 seconds.
When Nikic crossed the finish line, he jumped into the arms of Grieb.
"This is something that changes perceptions for every parent worldwide with children with Down syndrome," said Ironman finish-line announcer, Mike Reilly. "Now they all know one thing for sure – anything is possible."
Nikic credits his success to his philosophy: Just get 1% better every day.
"It's easy to be successful because I only need to get one percent better each day," the 23-year-old said.
The Ironman World Championship has been held annually in Hawaii since 1978. Qualifying for the World Championship is achieved through placement in one of the other Ironman races.
Last November, Nikic completed his first full Ironman.
Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz
Strangers At Park Join Single Mom To Sing Happy Birthday, Creating A Magical Moment
Helicopter Footage Captures Home Miraculously Saved From Tennessee Flood
Why You Should Stop Waking Up To Your Phone’s Alarm, According To New Research
Why Kids In This Japanese Town Are Obsessed With Trading Cards Of Local Grandpas
Florida Woman Finds 4 Adorable Baby Owls In Her Backyard Owl Box
Heartbroken Child Writes 7-Page Letter After Giving Up Her Beloved Cat
4-Year-Old Piano Prodigy Wins 1st Place At World Competition With Beethoven Performance
This 11-Year-Old Can Perfectly Imitate Over 50 Bird Calls
Dog Runs Home At Sunset With The Cutest Surprise Tagging Along
A Cowboy's Last Wish: Ride His Favorite Horse One Last Time
A Sheriff, A 'Cow', And A Dog Walk Into A Truck… And Go Viral With 'Moove Over' Song
