One-Legged Veteran Completes Hawaii Ironman

Boris Baruch Shtonda crossed the finish line of the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii on October 10. The Israeli army veteran completed the race on his prosthetic right leg. This marked the culmination of a training period that lasted one and a half years.

Shtonda competed in the division for athletes with disabilities. The course required him to swim 3.8 kilometers, ride a bike for 180 kilometers, and run a full marathon. He wore a custom-fitted running prosthetic designed specifically for the event.

The injury that necessitated the prosthetic occurred during his service in the IDF's Duvdevan unit. Following the Hamas attack on October 7, Shtonda deployed to northern Gaza. About a month later, an explosive device wounded him in Beit Hanoun. Doctors performed several surgeries and eventually amputated his right leg above the knee.

Shtonda turned athletic goals into a core part of his recovery. Before attempting the full Ironman, he climbed Mount Kilimanjaro twice and swam across the Sea of Galilee. He also completed a half Ironman race in Spain. These feats prepared him for the demanding training regimen required for the Hawaii championship.

Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) backed his preparation. Mike Hochstein, an FIDF supporter from Dallas, met Shtonda during a bike ride through Israel last year. Hochstein noted the veteran's commitment. "His dedication, perseverance, and commitment to pushing his limits are truly inspiring," Hochstein said.

Shtonda dedicated his performance to wounded soldiers and those in rehabilitation. He offered a message to others facing difficult situations. "You are your own compass," he said. "Sometimes, we have to be our own heroes and pull ourselves out of the predicaments we find ourselves in. Keep the faith, and always, always, believe in yourselves."

FIDF CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan stated the result reflects the determination of wounded soldiers. "Recovery does not end when medical treatment is over," Padan said. He explained that the process requires continued support and the chance to set new goals. FIDF uses sports and adventure activities to help veterans regain independence and return to daily life.