A British Army veteran who lost both legs and his left hand in Afghanistan made history Tuesday morning by becoming the first triple amputee to sail solo across the Pacific, reaching his destination in western Japan.
Craig Wood, 34, who departed Mexico in March, sailed around 13,000 kilometers on a 12.5-meter custom-built aluminum catamaran for 90 days before arriving at Hiroshima Port.
"I genuinely hope this monumental achievement shows others, especially those living with limb loss, that you are capable of far more than you think. There are no limits," Wood said in an Instagram post Wednesday.
He suffered the life-changing injuries in 2009 at age 18 in a blast in Afghanistan while on routine patrol, just a year after joining the Army.
A lifelong sailing enthusiast, he embarked on the voyage to challenge perceptions of disability, using prosthetic limbs to navigate the catamaran solo. He had planned to arrive in Osaka Prefecture but changed course due to engine trouble.
Speaking to Kyodo News on Wednesday, Wood said he plans to visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which documents the U.S. atomic bombing of the city in the closing days of World War II.
Describing himself as "living the result of the war" in Afghanistan, Wood said, "I feel really sad about the victims (of the atomic bombing). I would like to pray for them."
© KYODO
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WoodyLee
""I genuinely hope this monumental achievement shows others, especially those living with limb loss, that you are capable of far more than you think. There are no limits," Wood said in an Instagram post Wednesday.""
Yes Sir, Kudos and Respect.
The other day I watched a 104 years of age American Lady successfully jump off a cliff with a partner in a Parachute then I found out later that she passed away 3 moths later, it was her wish to make this jump and she did.
WoodyLee
WAR IS HELL, I hope Mr. Wood advocates that as well.
BigP
He sacrificed so much. Thank you!
Jay
What a legend. Thank you for your service, Craig. In fact, I just wish I could shake your hand and offer to buy you a cold one.
wallace
An amazing achievement even for a fully able person.
grund
Amazing job. Truly an inspiration!
okinawarides
Wow, nothing but respect. Incredible.
NickPrime
Inspiring, specially on these troubling times.
nandakandamanda
Waterworld. Fantastic. Actually makes me kind of jealous. Wonderful journey, and congratulations on making it!
Dr.Cajetan Coelho
Congratulations to the young veteran Craig Wood. Non violence is the way forward. Fighting and losing lives or limbs cannot be our way of proceeding. British War veteran Craig Wood will inspire countless able-bodied and the disabled to enjoy the gift of life without causing harm to one another.