Six Star Marathon Major Journey- AlL Of The world Majors in ONe year around the globe. together they accomplished a world record

What is your WHY? Do you surround yourself with people that push you to do better? World meet Chris Nikic!

Rhonda Vetere is a trailblazer with a relentless spirit, inspiring others by showing what’s possible when you push past limitations. In 2024, Rhonda embarked on an extraordinary journey with Chris Nikic, a Special Olympics athlete with Down syndrome, to complete all six Abbott World Marathon Majors in a single year. This feat is both a personal milestone & world record as a symbol of resilience, inclusivity, and the power of teamwork.

Not only did they complete all of the Abbott World Major Marathons in one year, they completed another marathon and 2 70.3’s together and along with coming in number one for intellectual disability category in the USAT race in Atlantic City in September of 2024.

In March 2024, Chris became the first person with Down syndrome to cross the Tokyo Marathon finish line, marking the beginning of this record-breaking journey. With each race, Rhonda and Chris continued to challenge expectations, breaking barriers for inclusion and performance in endurance sports. Together, they’re proving that with dedication and a strong support system, anything is possible. In November 2024, all six of the World Abbott Marathons were completed in one year together!

Breaking Barriers & Setting Records

Rhonda and Chris’s mission goes beyond completing marathons. They’re dedicated to making competitive sports accessible to athletes of all abilities. In 2024, their achievements led to policy changes within major athletic organizations, including the Boston Athletic Association, USATriathlon and Ironman, allowing athletes with intellectual disabilities to compete for prizes. Each race they complete together is a testament to the power of inclusion and action.

Setting a New Guinness World Record

As they crossed each marathon finish line, Rhonda and Chris broke ground in more ways than one. They are the first duo to attempt all six World Marathon Majors in a single year, with Chris as an athlete with Down syndrome and Rhonda as his consistent guide. This achievement, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records, symbolizes their commitment to breaking down barriers and inspiring others. If the world doesn’t know Chris, you should!

Their Progress:

Tokyo Marathon
Completed on March 3, 2024

Boston Marathon
Completed on April 15, 2024

London Marathon
Completed on April 21, 2024

Berlin Marathon
Completed on September 29, 2024

Chicago Marathon
Completed on October 14, 2024

New York City Marathon
Completed on November 3, 2024

Join the Journey

Rhonda’s partnership with Chris exemplifies her belief that who you surround yourself with matters. She encourages everyone to find those who challenge and uplift them. Rhonda is honored to be Chris’s guide, coach, and friend on this world-stage journey, sharing not just races but a shared vision of what’s possible.

Discover Rhonda and Chris’s journey for inspiration, as they prove that small steps forward each day lead to monumental achievements.