CHRIS NIKIC IS FIRST WITH DOWN SYNDROME TO FINISH IRONMAN

NICK COMPLETED THE IRONMAN IN UNDER 17 HOURS

Florida native Chris Nikic became the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman triathlon on Saturday.

Nikic swam 2.4 miles, biked 112 miles and ran 26.2 miles in 16:46:09 in the Ironman Florida, which has a 17-hour time limit.

“You have shattered barriers while proving without a doubt that Anything is Possible!” Ironman Florida wrote on Facebook. “We are beyond inspired, and your accomplishment is a defining moment in IRONMAN history that can never be taken away from you. …The opportunities you have created for others around the world through this journey you embarked upon, is immeasurable.”

Nikic trained four to eight days for a year with trainer Dan Grieb, who has 16 Ironman races under his belt. Grieb was on hand to guide and support Nickic through this event.

The 21-year-old Nikic now has sites on another Ironman, the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, in October of 2021.

“I have to work hard and give my best every day. If I do an Ironman and become a pro-speaker I will have a chance to get my dream,” Nikic said.

WAY TO GO CHRIS, YOU ARE A TRUE INSPIRATION!