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Special Olympian burns up the track

Andrew Peterson's journey to the top has been more like a marathon than a sprint.
Andrew Peterson, left, with Jason Spells
It's a hot day and runner Andrew Peterson is burning up the track.

It's another training session for one of Indiana's best middle distance runners. But for the special Olympian, his journey to the top has been more like a marathon than a sprint.

"I started at the age of nine, 'cause I ran a 3k with my father," said Andrew.

Andrew suffers from fetal alcohol syndrome, which limited his cognitive capabilities. But Andrew's father Craig says the disability has not limited his son's success on the track.

"In so many areas of Andrew's life based upon his intellectual disabilities, there are certain things he can't do. That he may never be able to do. But when he's on the track, he can compete with anybody," Craig said.

We were first introduced to Andrew back in 2008 as a 15-year-old student at Charles A Tindley School. Since then, the admittedly shy kid has grown into a star in the state's athletics circle, winning nearly 20 gold medals on the state and national levels - all while serving as a motivational speaker.

"I've been to 60 high schools and I've spoke to over 60,000 students," said Andrew.

"He's much more confident," said Craig. "And better self-esteem and believing in himself that he has something to offer."

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