History-Making Athlete Has Sights Set on MI Summer Special Olympics
Julie Bitely
| 2 min read
After making an impressive debut at the Boston Marathon this spring, Julian Borst is primed to turn in more amazing performances this summer.
Borst made history at the April marathon as the first Special Olympics Michigan athlete to compete in the iconic race. The 22-year-old finished in 3 hours, 5 minutes and 8 seconds and was one of five Special Olympics athletes from across the country to compete.
“I felt proud and honored,” Borst said of his history-making performance.
Julian Borst receiving his medals at the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games.
Now, he’s gearing up for his next races, which will take place at the Special Olympics Michigan State Summer Games, set to take place on the campus of Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant May 31 – June 2. Borst will be competing in the 400-, 800-, 1,500- and 5,000-meter races. After winning the 3,000-, 5,000- and 10,000-meter contests at the Special Olympics USA Games in 2018, Borst’s chances for success are strong, particularly in the longer distances.
“The longer the better,” he explained of his race distance preferences.
Borst started running as a 10-year-old and competed on middle school and high school teams. He has sensory processing disorder, which affects the brain’s response to senses. It certainly hasn’t slowed down his running career, which will continue for the foreseeable future.
“Running is wonderful and good for you,” he said.
Cheer on Borst and all the other Special Olympics Michigan athletes at the State Summer Games, presented by SpartanNash. Learn how Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan helps SOMI athletes stay healthy.
If you liked this post, you might also enjoy:
Photos courtesy of Special Olympics Michigan
