As an athlete and tech executive, I take great joy in helping others achieve their goals and dreams. Last week, I flew to Tokyo to guide Chris Nikic, who had set the goal to become the first Down Syndrome athlete ever to run the Tokyo Marathon.
Together, we broke two world records and our story (which has been picked up in the press and on social media) has already inspired others to reach for their dreams.
Our Goal: Break 2 World Records, Finishing the 6th Marathon in the Series
On March 3, 2024 a new World Record and history was made! Mission accomplished, after crossing the 26.2 mile finish line. Chris Nikic became the first Down Syndrome athlete to complete the Tokyo Marathon, earning him his 6th star as part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, a race series consisting of six of the largest and most renowned marathons in the world: Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York City. The accomplishment was made even sweeter by the fact that he had tried before and been disqualified on his previous attempt.) This time Chris also ran the first half marathon split in a PR, or record time.
The best part of the race was seeing Chris finish and get his 6th star in the series. All along the course, people were running by, routing for him and screaming. He is truly an inspiration to all. This isn’t the end of this journey. Wait to see what else is on the horizon.
1. Why I Decided to guide the first athlete with Down Syndrome to Finish the Tokyo Marathon
The WHY is very important. Chris has Down Syndrome and we both stand for inspiring others daily and pushing others through the mental blocks. We have teamed up to make Chris’ dream come true. I love to help people, especially people who have a good heart and are giving their all. I know what it is like to not to have help at a young age because that was a younger version of me. I worked since I was 12 years old, and I am all about giving people a chance who have the right intentions.
Chris is an amazing human being with a heart of gold. This is a true honor and we are learning from each other. This is an inspiring and beautiful story. We are friends and I want to help make his dreams come true. Chris is setting an example for others and inspiring people around the world – and the entire world needs to see him! Bottom line? Helping others brings me joy.
2. What Were Some Lessons learned along the way
Thus far, I have learned about Down Syndrome, and how dedicated Chris is to being 1 percent better every day. Along the way he is inspiring people who have disabilities and those who don’t! I also learned that the parents need support on this journey.
3. helping others a self-fulfilling act
Helping others is important and we all need help. Not helping people I consider selfish and not trying to understand others is even more selfish. My heart is full of joy, happiness and the commitment to continue to support Chris in his future endeavors.
4. How Can others get involved in their communities and activities
I hope that this story inspires others to take a look at themselves and ask when the last time they helped someone.
How to help? Go online, find your passion and volunteer in your community –that is a great first step to getting involved. If you don’t know your passion, give me a call and I am sure we can talk through it and figure out what makes you tick.
5. My lasting takeaway from such an epic day and event
This is a significant life milestone, not just for Chris, but for humans with any type of disability. We want to show everyone that you can do anything, no matter what you think your limits are, or if you have ever been told you can’t do something.
We hope to inspire others to be better today than yesterday. Being Chris’ guide for this milestone has been a blessing. Most of all, we are friends and we trust each other to tackle life head on.
Being a guide is a blessing, and I will continue to serve in any way possible, helping people advance in life and fulfill their dreams.
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