Veteran Boris Shtonda Finishes Hawaii Ironman on Prosthetic Leg
The Israeli reservist completed the 3.8-kilometer swim and 180-kilometer bike leg three years after losing his right leg in Gaza.
By Bianca Ricci ·
Boris Baruch Shtonda crossed the finish line of the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii on October 10. He completed the full distance using a custom-fitted running prosthetic on his right leg. The event requires athletes to swim 3.8 kilometers, cycle 180 kilometers, and run a full marathon. Shtonda competed in the division for athletes with disabilities.
Shtonda lost his right leg in an explosion in Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza. He was serving as a reservist in the IDF's Duvdevan unit when the injury occurred roughly three years ago. Doctors amputated his leg above the knee after multiple surgeries. The injury happened about one month after his deployment following the October 7 attacks.
Athletic milestones became a central part of Shtonda's rehabilitation process. He climbed Mount Kilimanjaro twice and swam across the Sea of Galilee. He also finished a half Ironman race in Spain before setting his sights on the full Hawaii event. The training period lasted one and a half years and was supported by Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, known as FIDF.
Mike Hochstein, an FIDF supporter from Dallas, helped back Shtonda's preparation. Hochstein first met the veteran during an FIDF bike ride through Israel last year. Hochstein described Shtonda's dedication and perseverance as truly inspiring. FIDF uses sports and adventure activities to help wounded soldiers build physical and mental resilience.
Shtonda dedicated his race to wounded soldiers and those undergoing rehabilitation. He told competitors and observers, "You are your own compass." He added, "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."
Nadav Padan, CEO of FIDF, stated that the result reflects the determination wounded soldiers bring to long rehabilitation. Padan noted that recovery does not end when medical treatment is over. He said the process requires continued support, chances to rebuild strength and confidence, and the opportunity to set new goals beyond initial medical treatment. FIDF supporters in the United States assist wounded soldiers and their families through this ongoing process.
Source: The Jerusalem Post
