Autism Never Held Mike Brannigan Back For A Second Once He Discovered His Love (And Talent) For Running

Mike Brannigan in interview on NBC about running with autism

When asked by NBC’s Kate Snow, “Do you think autism makes you a better runner?”, Mike Brannigan, 17, responded, “Um…a better person.” Wow. Talk about humility. Here’s a senior in high school, who has been heavily recruited for college, turning down the opportunity to talk about his success as one of the top 10 runners in the country.

Whether or not autism contributes to Mike’s success as a runner is beside the point. The real story is how the act of running has transformed his life. Mike’s mother, Edie, said in an interview with NBC News, “I know what running’s done for Mikey. It has allowed him to focus — in such a way that his academics soared after he started running.” Doctors initially told the Brannigan’s that Mike would need to be placed in a special school and group home. Yet, despite this prognosis, Mike is now a senior in his local public high school with a grade average of 84.

Beyond academics, running has helped Mike hit his stride socially. Mike’s father, Kevin, told NBC, “Every time I brought him to a race or practice, he was just a regular kid. And all the other stuff that goes on — everything goes away when he’s out on the track.” Mike clearly connects with his teammates in this video with a joy that transcends any hurdles autism presents.

With over 200 colleges recruiting Mike to run, including most top Division I schools, I have a strong feeling this won’t be the last time we hear about him.

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