Chris Nikic - First Ironman 140.6 Participant with Down Syndrome! / Down Syndrome
Meet Chris Nikic, but you may already know of him! Chris is the 1st person with Down Syndrome to do an Ironman 140.6. Not only is he a hero to so many children and people with and without Down Syndrome, but Chris also has an amazing challenge he promotes - the 1% Better Challenge. The challenge is to promote Down Syndrome Awareness and consists of two steps: 1. You get 1% better for 30 days. 2. Help someone do the same.
Chris focused on making small improvements each day when training. Come race day, Chris faced challenges - red ants biting his legs, causing them to swell, crashing his bike, struggling to finish the race… however, this wasn’t just about the Ironman for Chris, this was about showing him what he could achieve in the future.
Chris said in an interview, “Do not put a lid on me”. A mentality that is sometimes difficult to have but could not be more true. Pediatric heroes and non-Pediatric heroes, find your passion, find your rhythm, don’t put a lid on yourself, and push forward! Thank you Chris, for allowing us to share your story, we wish you the best for all of your dreams and will be rooting for you on the sidelines!
Chris focused on making small improvements each day when training. Come race day, Chris faced challenges - red ants biting his legs, causing them to swell, crashing his bike, struggling to finish the race… however, this wasn’t just about the Ironman for Chris, this was about showing him what he could achieve in the future.
Chris said in an interview, “Do not put a lid on me”. A mentality that is sometimes difficult to have but could not be more true. Pediatric heroes and non-Pediatric heroes, find your passion, find your rhythm, don’t put a lid on yourself, and push forward! Thank you Chris, for allowing us to share your story, we wish you the best for all of your dreams and will be rooting for you on the sidelines!