IDF veteran completes Hawaii Ironman race three years after losing leg in Gaza combat

Three years following his injury and loss of the right leg during combat in Gaza, IDF veteran Boris Baruch Shtonda triumphed in the Hawaii Ironman race on October 10. Shtonda participated in the long-distance triathlon, which included a 3.8-kilometer swim, a 180-kilometer bicycle ride, and a full marathon, all while utilizing a custom-made prosthetic limb. The leg amputation occurred after he sustained severe injuries from an explosive device in the northern Gaza city of Beit Hanoun, just a month after being deployed.

In the months following the attack, Shtonda underwent multiple surgeries and made it his goal to overcome athletic challenges as part of his recovery. He climbed Mount Kilimanjaro twice, swam across the Sea of Galilee, and successfully completed a half Ironman race in Spain. Following a year and a half of rigorous training and support from Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF), Shtonda achieved his goal of finishing the Hawaii Ironman.

The veteran dedicated his accomplishment to wounded soldiers undergoing rehabilitation and encouraged them to rely on their inner strength, believe in themselves, and become their own heroes. Shtonda also expressed gratitude to FIDF supporter Mike Hochstein of Dallas, who was impressed by Shtonda's determination, perseverance, and mental resilience upon meeting him during a visit to Israel.

FIDF's mission to assist wounded IDF soldiers and their families includes providing rehabilitation programs, sports, and adventure activities to build physical and mental resilience. Shtonda's achievement exemplifies the resilience and determination of wounded IDF soldiers, emphasizing that rehabilitation extends beyond medical treatment and that sports, personal determination, and community support can aid wounded soldiers in regaining confidence, overcoming challenges, and rebuilding their lives after injury.