How Under Armour's Michael Phelps Ad Inspired an Underdog Athlete's Remarkable Journey

UA follows Johnny Agar's story

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Under Armour’s Michael Phelps spot by Droga5, which was Adweek’s pick as the best ad of 2016, has inspired countless people since it broke 13 months ago—perhaps no one more than Johnny Agar.

Agar, who was born with cerebral palsy, made headlines last summer when he and his father Jeff hatched a remarkable plan to attempt the World Ironman Championship in Kona, Hawaii, together. Jeff would push and pull Johnny during the entire triathlon until the last mile, when Johnny would walk alone with his walker, which had been a lifelong dream.

They

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