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Man With Cerebral Palsy Imitates Michael Phelps Rule Yourself Video

Sometimes we just need someone extraordinary to give us a push, give us some motivation to be able to do anything that we put our minds to.

Last October, Johnny, who has cerebral palsy, was chosen to participate in the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. Accompanied by his father, Johnny struggled through the race not giving up, until an unfortunate squall during the swim made the 200 yards a huge problem for Johnny and the energy he needed for the remainder of the race. Despite this, he made better time than was hoping to in the swim, but much of his energy was gone, so he was unable to make the biking cut-off time.

This hasn’t stopped Johnny, as he has an extraordinary role model, Micheal Phelps. To get himself motivated, Johnny would watch the Under Armour commercial featuring Phelps, “Rule Yourself” to help give him the never-give-up attitude that he has.

In the video below, you will see Johnny walking by himself, for the first time – he and his family owe this all to the inspiration that Phelps is.

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Jay
7 years ago

This is so cool! I have CP myself and I can relate to the determination demonstrated in this video. That same determination that I have lead me to never give up when I was younger Because of that, I have a degree in excercise sports science I became a physical Education teacher, and swim coach. I am still teaching and coaching. Thank you for the motivation Johnny!

Emma
7 years ago

This film reminds us teachers and coaches why we are here. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Such inspiration, keep going strong. ❤

Swim fast
7 years ago

He should us in paralympic swimming we need more guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

CBswims
7 years ago

Another one for the inspirational list. There are no words, only determination.

an M fan
7 years ago

sometimes the greatest of us are the ones who remain in the dark and fight for the simple things we take for granted. great video

Coach Dia
7 years ago

I love this story. Incredibly powerful and inspirational.

SwimGeek
7 years ago

Wow. Powerful

Reply to  SwimGeek
7 years ago

I got a little teary-eyed watching this…

SwimGeek
Reply to  Gold Medal Mel Stewart
7 years ago

Same here.

ALEXANDER POP-OFF
Reply to  SwimGeek
7 years ago

Who put chlorine in my eyes.

About Braden Keith

Braden Keith

Braden Keith is the Editor-in-Chief and a co-founder/co-owner of SwimSwam.com. He first got his feet wet by building The Swimmers' Circle beginning in January 2010, and now comes to SwimSwam to use that experience and help build a new leader in the sport of swimming. Aside from his life on the InterWet, …

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