Chris Nikic Becomes 1st Athlete with Down Syndrome to Finish Ironman Championship

Chris was the first person with Down syndrome to complete the world championship.

According to Brian Meltzer of Outside, the triathlon consists of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and 26.2 mile run. The young man finished the race in 16 hours, 31 minutes and 27 seconds with the assistance of his guide. The event took place in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, and he was able to complete it before the cutoff time.

Two years ago, Nikic became the first person with Down syndrome to complete an ironman triathlon, thanks to his efforts at the Florida event.

News 6 WKMG @news6wkmg

TRULY INSPIRING | Central Florida's own Chris Nikic became the first athlete with Down syndrome to complete the Ironman triathlon. His motto is inspiring others to try 1% more each day. https://t.co/ipqjOHkF5p pic.twitter.com/7zW3GXYVjv

The New York City Marathon was completed in November of 2011.

SportsCenter @SportsCenter

On Sunday, @ChrisNikic completed the New York City Marathon.

This comes exactly one year after he made history by becoming the first person with Down syndrome to complete an @IRONMANtri 👏 pic.twitter.com/bVNNe2dv9D

He was featured in March 2021.

The Jimmy V Award for Perseverance was given to Nikic.