x
Breaking News
More () »

First person with Down Syndrome to complete Austin Marathon will participate in Boston Marathon

Kayleigh Williamson was chosen by Adidas to run in the Boston Marathon. She will be the second runner with a cognitive disability to participate.

AUSTIN, Texas — In February, Kayleigh Williamson became the first person with Down syndrome to complete the Austin Marathon. Now, she will be the second person with a cognitive disability to participate in the Boston Marathon.

According to a release, Adidas chose Williamson to join the Boston run under bib number 321. It's all part of the "Runner 321" program developed in partnership with Adidas and the Boston Marathon to challenge marathons around the world to designate bib 321 for a runner with a cognitive disability who wants to participate. 

RELATED: 'My child has a legacy' | With Austin Marathon finish, Kayleigh Williamson makes history

Williamson made history earlier this year when she completed the Austin Marathon. She was joined by supporters, her mother and her former trainer for the run. Williamson completed the run with a time of 6 hours, 43 minutes and 51 seconds. 

The Austin City Council a month later issued a proclamation honoring Williamson and declaring Feb. 20, 2022 "Kayleigh Williamson Day."

RELATED: Austin City Council issues proclamation honoring Kayleigh Williamson

But that was hardly her first run, or her first time being the first. In 2017 she became the first person with Down Syndrome to finish the Ascension Seton Austin Half Marathon.

Williamson's dedication led her to complete 16 half marathons and a full marathon, paving the way for her entrance to the 2023 Boston Marathon.

KVUE on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

PEOPLE ARE ALSO READING: 

Dallas-based company to build over 1,000 Tuscan-style homes in Florence

How the Texas 'Baby Moses' law works

CLEAR Alert issued for missing Austin woman

Before You Leave, Check This Out