Gaza War Veteran: Shtonda Completes Ironman in Hawaii

Boris Baruch Shtonda crossed the finish line of the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii on October 10.

The Israeli army veteran competed in the division for athletes with disabilities. He completed the course using a custom-fitted running prosthetic. The race required him to swim 3.8 kilometers, cycle 180 kilometers, and run a full marathon.

Shtonda served as a reservist in the Duvdevan unit following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. About a month into his deployment, an explosive device severely wounded him in Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza. Doctors amputated his right leg above the knee after several surgeries.

He turned athletic challenges into a central part of his recovery process. Shtonda has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro twice and swum across the Sea of Galilee. He also finished a half Ironman race in Spain before deciding to train for the full event in Hawaii.

His preparation lasted one and a half years. Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) provided financial and logistical support for his training. Mike Hochstein of Dallas, an FIDF supporter, met Shtonda during a bike ride through Israel last year. Hochstein described Shtonda's dedication and perseverance as truly inspiring.

Shtonda dedicated his finish to wounded soldiers and those undergoing rehabilitation. He told those recovering from injury to be their own heroes and pull themselves out of difficult situations. He urged them to always believe in themselves.

FIDF CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan stated that the result reflects the determination of wounded soldiers. Padan noted that recovery continues after medical treatment ends. He said the organization provides continued support to help veterans regain independence and set new goals beyond initial medical care.