Gaza Veteran: IDF amputee finishes Ironman World Championship in Hawaii

IDF veteran Boris Baruch Shtonda finished the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii on October 10. He competed in the division for athletes with disabilities, wearing a custom-fitted running prosthetic on his right leg.

Shtonda lost his right leg above the knee while serving as a reservist in the IDF’s Duvdevan unit. He was severely wounded by an explosive device in Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza one month after being deployed. The injury occurred following the Hamas attack on October 7.

He underwent multiple surgeries before the amputation. Shtonda set athletic goals as a central part of his recovery. Since beginning his rehabilitation, he climbed Mount Kilimanjaro twice and swam across the Sea of Galilee. He also finished a half Ironman race in Spain before turning his focus to the Hawaii event.

Shtonda trained for one and a half years to prepare for the full competition. The race included a 3.8-kilometer swim, a 180-kilometer bike ride, and a full marathon. Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, known as FIDF, provided support during his training.

Mike Hochstein of Dallas, an FIDF supporter, helped Shtonda after meeting him during a bike ride through Israel last year. Hochstein cited Shtonda’s determination and mental resilience as reasons for his involvement. He described the athlete’s commitment to pushing his limits as a key factor in his decision to provide support.

FIDF CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan stated that Shtonda’s achievement reflects the determination of wounded soldiers in rehabilitation. Padan noted that recovery continues after medical treatment ends. The organization helps veterans rebuild strength and confidence through sports and adventure activities.

Shtonda dedicated his completion of the race to wounded soldiers and others in rehabilitation. He told them to believe in themselves and become their own heroes. He said, “You are your own compass.. Keep the faith, and always.. believe in yourselves.”