Ocala man thrives in Special Olympics
Intrepid athlete tackles a wide variety of sports, including Ironman competitions.
Thomas Welsh and guide K.C. Northrup. [Photo courtesy Special Olympics Florida]
Thomas Welsh has an affinity for running. And biking. And swimming.
The Marion County man recently completed the Ironman 70.3 Gulf Coast triathlon in Panama City Beach and is in training for the Chicago Marathon in October and the Ironman Florida race in November, which will include a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike and 26.2-mile run.
According to materials provided by Special Olympics Florida, Welsh has been a Special Olympics athlete since 2009, beginning his journey in Illinois and continuing it in Florida.
“He is an accomplished triathlete who has also competed in soccer, track, swimming, bowling, softball, tennis and pickleball, and has served as an assistant track coach. He takes immense pride in supporting our mission with his participation in the Race for Inclusion and the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Florida fundraising events,” the materials stated.
The organization noted that “Thomas’ family says he has thrived since his family move to Florida in 2016 and he discovered his passion for running and triathlon.”
“We remember the days when Thomas, full of anxiety of the unknown, would go running – running away from his fears in life,” said Maura, his mother. “Now we cherish the moments when he puts on his running shoes and runs for the pure joy of life.”
“I live by the words in the athlete oath: ‘Be brave in the attempt.’ My daily training is intense – sometimes I swim 2 miles and then run 10 miles all in the same day. I’ve formed lifelong friendships, and we will remain teammates forever. I don’t let what I can’t do interfere with what I can do. I am proud to be part of Special Olympics as it allows me to achieve more than I ever imagined possible. I am very grateful for my coaches and guides,” Welsh stated in the document.
Welsh has an associate’s degree from the College of Central Florida, works at Winn-Dixie and volunteers in the community.
To learn more about Special Olympics Florida, go to specialolympicsflorida.org
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