Zion Clark has never met a challenge that he didn’t want to overcome.
Born with the rare genetic disorder Caudal Regression Syndrome, his body never developed below the waist. He grew up in the foster care system, often enduring painful stares from strangers and bullying from kids at school.
In spite of his hardships, Zion developed a passion for athletics and an incredible determination to succeed. In high school, he started wrestling and became one of the best student athletes in his home state of Ohio. His mantra is simple – “no excuses” – and it’s a philosophy he lives by every day.
“I will always work with what I’ve got because I don’t really have any other cards that are dealt to me… I’ve got to play them the right way so I can be successful and win the card game,” Zion explained.
Zion has set his sights on his next challenge. He hopes to go to the Olympics to wrestle one day, dreaming of winning more medals than even the most decorated Olympian ever, Michael Phelps. He’s also hoping to go to the Paralympics to compete in wheelchair racing, potentially becoming the first American to compete in both Olympics and Paralympic games.
But first – it’s time to set some records!
A video Zion shared on Instagram got the attention of none other than the producers of the “Guinness World Record” book. The video showed the athlete running on his hands, and he was so lightning-fast that they wondered if he might try to set the record for “World’s Fastest Man on Two Hands.” Never one to shy away from a challenge, Zion accepted – and he crushed it!
With former Olympians, his family, friends, and his coach cheering him on, Zion ran over 65 feet on his hands in just under 5 seconds.
“Before I knew it, I had crossed the finish line! A rush of euphoria surged through my body as the official timer called out 4.78 seconds!” Zion recalled.
Zion will now be featured in the 2022 edition of “Guinness World Records,” and he couldn’t be happier about it. He says the fact that there’s a copy of this book in most elementary schools means he can reach more kids and tell them to never give up on their dreams, no matter what.
“The message I would give to kids with disabilities or anyone with a disability would be — It’s going to be hard, but if you’ve got the heart and the determination, you can go get what’s yours,” he said. “If you’re disabled or you’re not disabled, the message stays the same.”
When asked what he’d say to all the people who bullied him years ago, Zion gave a surprising answer. “I’d say thank you,” he said. “Because it really made me stronger.”
Zion seems to be fueled by sheer confidence, and we’re so proud of him for setting an example for all kids, whether they have disabilities or not. We can’t wait to root for him at the Olympic and Paralympic games!
Watch the video below to see Zion setting the record, and don’t forget to share.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.