7-year-old Paralympic Athlete Competes to Inspire

By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- About 100 kids from around the Metro and across the country are racing in the Iron Kids Oklahoma City Triathlon. But one young athlete is racing to inspire those around him.

Cody McCasland has an inspiring story for a boy so young. The 7-year-old athlete looks like any other kids his age at first glance, but Cody is a double amputee.

"When I was born I was missing the shinbones in my knees, so they had to amputate me and give me the prosthetics so I could be active," Cody said.

Cody is a double knee amputee, but he's still biking and running. For months, he's been training for his very first Iron Kid triathlon with dozens across the country.

"Tomorrow, the triathlon is here for me. It's going to be a 50 meter swim, two mile bike and half mile run," Cody said.

Nothing is slowing this 7-year-old athlete one bit. He's competed in Paralympics, Endeavor Games and his running legs are covered with flags inspiring and making a difference for all wounded warriors.

"You have these strong soldiers who've been protecting our lives and our freedom and they don't really know what's next for them in life. They're kind of lost a lot of times and Cody starts bouncing in and his spirit just warms them up and life isn't over. They can still go on as well," said Cody's mom Tina McCasland.

It's a life lesson learned Cody's energy and big heart no matter what the obstacle, and he's wishing other athletes nothing less than the best.

"I will be doing it different from all of you but in the end we'll get it done and have some fun at the same time. Good luck!" Cody told his fellow competitors.

Cody said he's excited about the triathlon, but he also can't wait to start school as a second grader in two weeks. Cody has been featured on several national programs, including Orpah and Ellen Degeneres.

The Iron Kids Oklahoma City Triathlon starts at 8 a.m. Sunday at Lake Hefner. Learn more about Iron Kids.