Thomas Cantara Runs the World

Special Olympics New Hampshire athlete Thomas Cantara is no stranger to setting ambitious goals and shattering them. What started as a desire to simply qualify for the Boston Marathon has quickly evolved into a journey to conquer the prestigious World Marathon Majors. Thomas’ journey is nothing short of inspirational—highlighting his athleticism, perseverance, and the increasing inclusivity of professional sports for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

A Champion in Boston

In April 2024, Thomas Cantara returned to the Boston Marathon, not just as any runner, but as a competitor in the professional Para Athletics division. He clinched the title in the T20 intellectual impairment division with a remarkable time of 2:35:23. Reflecting on what this opportunity means, Thomas shared, “The running world has become more diverse, opening up opportunities for people of all kinds of disabilities, including intellectual ones. Having a professional career in running is really awesome.”

For Thomas, the professional division represents more than just prize money and recognition; it embodies a powerful shift in the sports community, embracing the talents of athletes with varying abilities. His journey to the top wasn’t easy, but his sheer determination continues to push him further each time.

The Road to the World Marathon Majors

While Boston holds a special place in Thomas’ heart, his sights have expanded to a new challenge: the World Marathon Majors, a series of six of the world’s most renowned marathons—Boston, Berlin, Chicago, London, New York City, and Tokyo. His journey began when Special Olympics New Hampshire board member Mark Duggan and Mary Conroy encouraged him to pursue the goal of competing in these elite events. Supported by his team, Thomas embarked on this exciting challenge.  “I want to run all six major marathons in the world and set a personal best for Special Olympics in each one. I want to show what we can achieve.”

With Boston and Chicago already completed, Berlin was next, marking his first overseas marathon. The BMW Berlin Marathon 2024 was held on Sunday, September 29, 2024. The experience in Germany was unforgettable: “It was a good experience. I really liked seeing the buildings and the sights there,” he recalled. Finishing the race with a personal best time of 2:31:23, Thomas learned valuable lessons that are sure to serve him well in future races.

Up Next: New York and Beyond

As the remainder of 2024 unfolds, Thomas’ calendar remains packed with races. He has set his sights on the New York City Marathon, which will take place on November 3, 2024. This marathon is just as large as Berlin, with over 50,000 participants expected, making it another significant milestone in Thomas’ quest to complete all six World Marathon Majors.

But his 2024 doesn’t stop there. Thomas will also be running the California International Marathon in December, this time to pace a friend aiming to qualify for Boston. As a seasoned marathoner, he is eager to support others in achieving their own running goals.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As 2025 approaches, Thomas’ marathon journey continues with his sights set on defending his title in Boston. He has already secured his spot in the professional division for the 2025 Boston Marathon, and the possibility of tackling the London Marathon shortly after is also on the horizon.

In his Boston Marathon success, Thomas made history, competing in a new Para Athletics division for athletes with intellectual disabilities. “It was a great experience,” Thomas shared, speaking about the opportunity to race in a smaller, more focused field with professional athletes. The division allows for athletes like him to compete fairly and earn recognition, while helping to inspire a new generation of Special Olympics athletes.

Thomas Cantara’s marathon journey is one of resilience, dedication, and breaking barriers. From his local roots in Keene, New Hampshire, to the world’s biggest marathons, Thomas is showing that athletes with intellectual disabilities can not only participate but thrive on the global stage. As he continues to set new personal bests and tackle new challenges, one thing is certain—Thomas is far from finished. His journey to conquer the World Marathon Majors is just getting started, and the finish line is nowhere in sight.

Keep an eye on Thomas as he takes on New York, London, and beyond—because he’s not just running marathons; he’s making history.