Sometimes there are certain things that people do that just make you go… WOW! Today we came across a story that literally brought tears to our eyes. Rick Van Beek is not like the normal dads out there. He has a unique life for a few reasons. First off, his 13 year old daughter Maddy has cerbral palsy. Secondly, Van Beek loves to run triathlons.
Now, when you first hear this you may be thinking something like “how is that unique? I know people who run triathlons.” Actually, what makes Van Beeks situation so unique is the fact that he has a partner when he runs the triathlon, his daughter!
Father Of The Year?
Van Beek says “I’ve never been disappointed what place I finish because I am doing it with my daughter.”
As for his daughter, Maddy loves to be outside hence the reason for racing. However, that doesn’t mean that her love of the outdoors can sometimes take a toll. Van Beek says that he has pulled out of races before if she isn’t feeling well or if it was too hot.
One can understand why a triathlon can be tough as it involves running, swimming and biking. Van Beek puts Maddy in the kayak during the swimming section, in a cart during the biking section and he pushes her in her wheelchair during the running portion.
According the the New York Daily News thus far “Team Maddy” has competed in over 75 races since 2008.
There are mothers in the fathers’ hearts who take care of their children!!
Absolutely MOTHERS are always there in the hearts of the FATHERS that show care for their Children.