Runner with Down syndrome makes history, running half-marathons across all 50 states

ST. CHARLES, Mo. (KMOV/Gray News) - A runner completed a long-standing goal of running 50 half-marathons across each of the 50 states.

Daniel Chaplin completed his goal Sunday morning.

It took him just over four hours to complete the Mo’ Cowbell Half-Marathon in St. Charles, crossing the finish line to huge cheers from his friends and family.

“This is the most excited I have ever been,” Chaplin said. “I never thought I’d make it to this point.”

Chaplin has Down syndrome and grew up in Webster Groves, Missouri. He started his running mission 12 years ago. He now lives in Alabama but chose to complete his final marathon in Missouri, just a short trip from his hometown.

His older brother Vernon says Daniel’s story is as cool as it is inspiring.

“Physical strength was never his strong suit, and to be able to do something that’s hard for a lot of people ... he can prove how far he can go,” Vernon said.

Race organizers and the Chaplin family plan to submit Daniel’s accomplishment to the Guinness Book of World Records.

But for Daniel, this is also about perseverance and proving to the world that Down syndrome can’t stop him, or anyone else, when you put your mind to it.

“People with Down syndrome can make a difference in this world,” Daniel said. “And it shows that people with Down syndrome really are more alike than different.”

The MO’ Cowbell Marathon brings together runners of all ability levels from across the world. This was the biggest year ever for the event. More than 5,400 runners competed in four events, a full marathon (26.2 miles), a half marathon (13.1 miles), a 10k and a 5k.

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