Chris Nikic Keeping Kids Active, Motivated Through Perseverance

First person with Down Syndrome to complete Ironman Triathlon

DULUTH, Minn.- Chris Nikic, the 2021 ESPN Jimmy V Perseverance Award winner, might be the perfect motivator for those taking part in this weekend’s Grandma’s Marathon.

On Thursday, Nikic spoke to a group of kids at the Northwood Children’s Services campus before leading them in a fun (and somewhat intense) workout.

“Today was tough and painless. But either way, I pushed them,” said Nikic, who is the first (and only) person with Down Syndrome to complete an Ironman Triathlon (2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bicycle ride, and 26.2-mile marathon run).

These days, Nikic seems to have enough energy to power an entire city block. However, his father, Nik, remembers when that wasn’t the case.

“It’s exciting because you put it in perspective, we were he was just a handful of years ago, where he was home alone, isolated, alone, out of shape, (and) didn’t really have any friends,” he explained.  “And to see him enjoying himself like this and inspiring people and making a difference. As a parent, it makes me happy to see him enjoying life.”

Chris’s milestone achievements have allowed him to travel the world, inspiring others to get 1% better every day.

“(1% better) means that we’ve got to persevere harder,” says Chris. “If we persevere harder, then imagine how it feels to walk away knowing that you complete your workouts.”

“(My wife and I) used to worry about him in his future,” says Nik. “We don’t worry about him anymore. His life has changed because he now has friends. He has community, he has a purpose in life. He has something he can look forward to something that will help him to make a difference in other people’s lives. And I think that’s a good way to spend your life is helping others.”

Chris and his father are now proud to make a difference by showing others the power of not giving up.

“I’m proud of him,” smiles Nik. “But I’m also happy because I can see him changing other people’s lives and seeing the difference that he’s making, wherever he goes.”

“I know how it feels. I feel it too. But you know what, you’ve got to persevere harder,” says Chris. “Once I help you succeed in life, I promise you (that) you will.”

Chris ran in Friday’s William A. Irvin 5K Race, where he finished with a time of 28:06.