One-legged reservist 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 event using a running prosthetic on his right leg.

The competition required athletes to swim 3.8 kilometers, cycle 180 kilometers, and run a full marathon. Shtonda competed in the division for athletes with disabilities. He had been serving as a reservist in the Duvdevan unit of the Israel Defense Forces following the Hamas attacks on October 7. An explosive device injured him in Beit Hanoun, a city in northern Gaza, about a month after his deployment. Doctors amputated his right leg above the knee after multiple surgeries.

Shtonda has focused on athletic milestones during his recovery. He climbed Mount Kilimanjaro twice and swam across the Sea of Galilee. He also finished a half Ironman race in Spain before training for the full event in Hawaii. The preparation period lasted a year and a half.

Friends of the Israel Defense Forces supported his training. Mike Hochstein, a supporter from Dallas, met Shtonda during a group bike ride in Israel last year. Hochstein described Shtonda's dedication and commitment to pushing his limits as truly inspiring. Shtonda dedicated his race to wounded soldiers and individuals in rehabilitation. He told competitors, "You are your own compass. 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 stated that its support for Shtonda is part of a wider effort to assist wounded IDF soldiers and their families. The organization uses rehabilitation, sports, and adventure activities to build physical and mental resilience. The goal is to help veterans regain independence and return to daily life. FIDF CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan said the result reflects the determination of wounded soldiers during long rehabilitation. He noted that recovery requires continued support and the opportunity to set new goals beyond medical treatment.

FIDF supporters in the United States continue to assist wounded soldiers and their families through this process.