Chris Nikic

Chris Nikic is an amateur triathlete who became the first person with Down syndrome to finish an Ironman triathlon in 2020. For this extraordinary achievement, Nikic was awarded the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance at the 2021 ESPY Awards. Additionally, he was honored with the ESPY for Best Athlete with a Disability in Men's Sports.

The Jimmy V Award for Perseverance is given to a person in the sporting world who has overcome great obstacles through perseverance and determination. Among these challenges, Nikic underwent open-heart surgery at just five months old.

Nikic's journey to his historic accomplishment was not an easy road. He trained for four to eight hours each day for around one year with Dan Grieb, a seasoned triathlete who completed 16 Ironman races. Nikic's perseverance paid off when he completed the Ironman Florida triathlon in a time of 16 hours 46 minutes 9 seconds, earning him recognition from Guinness World Records.

Continuing his 1% Better philosophy, Nikic went on to complete the 2022 Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii, with an improved time of 16 hours, 31 minutes. This philosophy focuses on achieving 1% improvement each day to reach one's dreams, a strategy Nikic applies to sports and life.

A recent high school graduate, Nikic is also a motivational speaker, sharing his story and inspiring others.