Peder Mondrup’s incredible and inspiration story shared through photos.
Peder Mondrup has accomplished a goal unthinkable for most disabled people: He finished an Ironman competition.
Mondrup, a 34-year-old who suffers from cerebral palsy, trained for and completed the KMD Ironman Triathalon in Copenhagen with the aid of his twin brother, Steen. The twins, originally from Denmark, reached the finish line in 15 hours, 32 minutes and 48 seconds.
Supporters call the brothers Team Tvilling, which means “twin” in Danish.
Steen has always been athletic, according to Danish newspaper The Local.
In 2013, he decided to complete a half marathon with Peder.
Peder has come a long way from his initial anxiety, becoming the first person with cerebral palsy to complete an Ironman.
The twins have no plans to give up their athletic pursuits any time soon.
The two keep their 22,000 plus fans informed with their website.
“Peder has always lived according to the last, which is self-reinforcing effect all over.”
“Our biggest dream is to challenge disabled and ‘normal’ people to have a better interaction in the sports world.”
Peder told newspapers that his achievement reflects who he is, regardless of his disability.
“For the first time, I felt like the person I see myself as: a regular participant instead of somebody in a wheelchair.”
Steen took responsibility for his brother during the race.
He pulled Peder on a raft through the water and pushed him in a wheelchair through the running portion.
Steen even biked with a lightweight wheelchair in tow.
The pair are truly inspirational.
Peder’s secret is his perspective on life, according to the brothers.
“Because of Peder’s outlook, he has so far had a wonderful life. Peder’s secret is that he has made a choice!”
“The choice has always been between two things, seeing himself as a victim, or seeing himself as a normal part of society.”
After the race, they posted to their website: “We did it! Thank you. Congratulations to all competitors. We are proud to be racing with you!”
“There are many who, because of ignorance and fear of saying or doing something wrong, fail to make direct contact with disabled people.”
“People in wheelchairs do not bite!”
Watch the heroic duo complete the race
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This article originally appeared on Elite Daily.
Photo Courtesy: Martin Paldan/Team Tvilling