Athlete achieves Ironman first
MIAMI: Finishing a maiden Ironman is a huge moment for any triathlete, but when 21yearold Florida resident Chris Nikic crossed the line at the weekend he became the first athlete with Down syndrome to achieve the feat.
Nearly 17 hours after embarking on the 3.9km swim, 180km bike ride and full marathon, Nikic arrived just inside the cutoff point for the Panama City Beach Ironman event.
His effort earned him a place in Guinness World Records and thousands of social media followers have been inspired by his determination to tackle one of sport’s toughest challenges.
Spectators cheered as Nikic crossed the line on Sunday with his trainer Dan Grieb, who acted as guide, well after dark and with 14 minutes to spare to record a time.
Nikic took up triathlon three years ago after four ear surgeries forced him into living a sedentary lifestyle and gaining weight.
He set a target of becoming 1% fitter each day, beginning with one pushup. Now he trains six days a week.
On his Instagram account, Nikic said he was focused on his next goal.
‘‘Goal set and achieved. Time to set a new and BIGGER Goal for 2021,’’ he wrote.
Nikic is now targeting the 2022 Special Olympics in Florida. — Reuters