Autistic Teen Triathlete From Florida Aims to Set a Guinness World Record

Trying to make it into the Guinness Book of World Records for any feat at all is absolutely brilliant. It takes determination and perseverance to be the best at something – anything – in the world. Some people make it into the book for inherent traits like their height, weight, and other unusual features. Then there are those who can hope to make it only if they put in every moment of every day dedicated to the cause. Such is the case with Adrienne Bunn, who hopes to set the record as the youngest female athlete with autism to complete an Ironman.

Bunn started cycling for triathlons in 2018 and has already set her sights on breaking into the record books for her physical prowess.

Journey Through Training with Autism

Bunn has been fighting an uphill battle in school after being diagnosed with autism at four. Aside from always needing more attention and smaller classes, Bunn needed a quiet and calm place to focus. This led to a frequent changing of schools and consequently, a feeling of loneliness due to her need to constantly make new friends in new places.

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However, since finding an interest in cycling in 2018, everything changed for Bunn. She started training for triathlons in the Special Olympics’ pilot program. Despite her limited experience, she was encouraged by her unified partners, Nick and Erin, who believed in her ability. Eventually, after getting a hold of triathlon cycling, Bunn began training for her first sprint triathlon – the Great Floridian Triathlon in Clermont.

Bunn eventually competed in the , which involved a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride, and 13.1-mile run. However, this October she has set her sights on the  in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. This means conquering double the distance. Besides getting fitter, Benn claims being a part of a community and accomplishing so much physically has been life-changing.

How Far Bunn Has Come

From not knowing much about cycling, Bunn now jets on her bike at 17 to 23 miles per hour. Over time, she has grown steadier and safer, and would rather be out cycling and enjoying being outside. In fact, it has helped her be more confident and make new friends. While she was initially overwhelmed, Bunn is glad to have met new people and become a part of a community.

Bunn also created a small guide to make your cycling journey a success. It involves just four basic but essential fundamentals. It all begins with joining a club and finding a reliable coach. This must be followed by cycling in a group so you have support in times of trouble. Proper equipment is also a must while starting. The last and most important part is to set your own goals. And to never give up.

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