Celebrating Excellence - Chris Nikic and the Ironman Triathalon
www.ChrisNikic.com
This weekend, the Down syndrome community and the world cheered on a man named Chris Nikic; the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman Triathlon!!! For those wondering what this is and why it’s a big deal, the Ironman Triathlon is widely regarded as one of the most difficult single day sporting events in the world. It consists of a 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike ride, and finished with a 26.22 mile run - all of which must be finished before the 17 hour mark!
Fresh off the heels of October’s Down syndrome awareness month, this is such an incredible milestone for both Chris and individuals with Ds and is one that will continue to spread awareness about the amazing talents, abilities, and worth of those with Down syndrome. Chris’s determination, bravery, fierce drive, and total commitment are incredible and his participation in and completion of the Ironman Triathlon is an inspiration. He proves that anything is possible with hard work and determination, and that no one should be limited in their options and abilities simply because they have a disability.
Chris is the type of person I want my own son to look up to one day - the type of man I want him to see as a role model of strength, perseverance, determination, hard work, commitment, and self worth. Chris Nikic isn’t just an inspiration to individuals with Down syndrome though, he’s a beacon of light to the entire Ds community, including parents, siblings, care givers, and friends. He proves wrong what so many doctors like to tell new parents facing a diagnosis for their child. Doctors say your child will never do this, that, or the other thing, they paint such a bleak picture of what your child will be able to and the life they’ll have. But they’re all wrong. Absolutely no one can predetermine what your child will be capable of, and Chris proves that.
So thank you, Chris Nikic. Thank you for breaking barriers, thank you for being an inspiration, thank you for proving just how much individuals with Down syndrome are capable of, thank you for paving the way for kid’s like Luke who will come after you. We are continuing to cheer you on in all you do, and can’t wait to see what you do next.