London Marathon: 19-Year-Old?With Down Syndrome Completes The Race, Sets Guinness World Record

In a commendable achievement, against the odds, Lloyd Martin has created history by becoming the youngest runner with Down syndrome to complete the London Marathon. On Sunday, the 19-year-old from Woking in Surrey became the youngest known person with Down syndrome to complete a marathon.

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How Lloyd competed in London Marathon

The teenager covered a distance of 26.2 miles (42.195 kilometers), in a time of 6:46:10, setting a new world record for anyone with Down syndrome.

Martin was able to complete the London Marathon after Guinness World Records created the challenge for him.

Coached by mother

Lloyd began marathon training in December for the race, having not attempted the marathon distance before. Coached by his mum, Ceri Hooper who is an accomplished marathoner herself.

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Hooper who ran with him as his guide, said his achievement was "amazing". "In Lloyd's words, it's achieving his dream," she said.

"It just proves it is possible to do anything and follow your dreams. If you want to do something just go out there and do it,' she added.

According to her, Lloyd ran continuously for 14 miles (22.5km) which is the longest he has ever run.

Was turned away by sports clubs

Recalling his journey to setting the new world record, Hooper said it wasn't an easy one.

She said that as a young boy, Lloyd was repeatedly turned away by sports clubs due to his condition.

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'It was tough to constantly fight but we are changing those stereotypes and inclusivity now is far greater than when he was growing up," she said.

Will help others with Down Syndrome

The proud mother also expressed confidence that her son's achievement will break down more barriers for people with Down syndrome.

"I hope that he has proved that anything is possible follow your dreams and just go out there and do it," she said.

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