‘Don’t run,’ Docs Said; Marathoner With Dwarfism Defied Them

April 5, 2018
In this Thursday, March 15, 2018, photo, marathon runner John Young, of Salem, Mass., makes his way along a training route in Salem. Young was born with dwarfism, but that hasn’t stopped him from conquering multiple marathons and triathlons. While most marathoners take about 35,000 steps to reach the finish line, Young uses about 80,000. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

SALEM, Mass. (AP) — Most marathoners take 35,000 steps to reach the finish line. John Young needs 80,000.

The high school math teacher from Canada is part of a rare and spirited breed of athlete: those who’ve overcome the daunting challenges of dwarfism to conquer the 26.2-mile (42.2-kilometer) distance.

Many endure not just the usual rigors of training but cruel taunts from onlookers — “Hey, check out the midget” — as they put in their miles.

But Young, who lightheartedly refers to himself as an LP (“little person”), has become an inspiration to others with dwarfism — and his accomplishments have won him respect and admiration around the globe. READ MORE>

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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