The Amazing Achievement
Recently, at the Ironman Florida competition in Panama City Beach, Chris Nikic, a 21 year old, made history when he became the first person with Down syndrome to complete this strenuous event. Guiness World Records recognized Nikic's fulfillment of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-marathon run.
There is a 17 hour cutoff time for completion of this competition; Nikic was just under the wire with his time of 16 hours 46 minutes and 9 seconds. Not only did Nikic finish this difficult race but, him and his teammates will also be representing the Florida Team in the USA Games in June 2022. To top that all off, this amazing athlete received the Local Hero Award by Special Olympics Florida. The award details, "inspiring individuals whose actions help create a more accepting and inclusive world for people with intellectual disabilities."
It Wasn't Easy
According to specialolymipics.org, "During the race, Chris suffered an attack by ants during a nutrition stop and fell off of his bike a couple of times. With blood dripping from his knee, he jumped right back on in a show of true sportsmanship and grit".
In order to achieve his goals, Nikic and his father came up with the 1% better principle. The philosophy entails that every day, he must get stronger and faster by 1%. This kind of determination is exactly what got him across that finish line. According to his coach, "I’m no longer surprised by what Chris can accomplish because I recognize who Chris is; a human being who has goals and dreams just like everyone else....He wants to make the path easier for those just like him and can follow his lead.” Chris Nikic surpassed the finish line while simultaneously surpassing stereotypes. Good Job Chris!!
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