Albanian-American Chris Nikic sets Guinness World Record in Triathlon Ironman

 Chris Nikic on the bicycle

 The Albanian-American Chris Nikic from Florida is the first person with Down syndrome to finish the Triathlon Ironman.

According to CNN, he has set a Guinness World Record after finishing the 2.4-mile swimming race, the 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-marathon run in Panama City Beach.

 Chris Nikic running

The American media has paid special attention to him, calling it a "historic achievement" from the Special Olympics.

Chris raced alongside his mentor Dan Grieb, and the 21-year-old posted these moments on Instagram saying he expects more next year.

 Chris Nikic swimming

"The goal was set and achieved. Time to set a new and bigger record for 2021," he said.

Nikiç and his father Nik have created the "1 percent better" challenge to be motivated during training. The idea is to promote Down syndrome awareness by achieving a 1% improvement every day.

"For Chris, this race was more than just a finish line and a celebration of victory. Ironman has served as his platform to take a step closer to his goal of living, the inclusion and leadership," said his father Nick.

Chris also received congratulations from celebrities around the world for his achievements including Billie Jean King and Kara Goucher.