Triple Amputee Sails the Pacific Solo

A former Army rifleman has made history by becoming the world’s first triple amputee to sail solo, non-stop and unsupported across the Pacific.

Craig Wood covered 7506 nautical miles at an average speed of 3.6 knots; a feat he completed in 90 days. 

Having set off from Puerto Vallarta in Mexico on March 25, Craig arrived at Hiroshima, Japan, on June 24, officially making history as the first ever triple amputee to sail the Pacific alone.

“I’m exhausted – but so proud to complete an expedition that many thought impossible,” said 34-year-old Craig. 

“It has tested me and my boat, Sirius II, almost to the limit, but I tried to stay in the moment, focus on my goal and the thought of seeing my wife and children at the end spurred me on.

“We are expecting our third child, so I am so excited to get back to them all and start this new chapter together.

“It is incredible to think that I am the first triple amputee in history to sail solo and unsupported across the Pacific, but I’m incredibly proud and want to be an example to anyone else living as an amputee that you can achieve any goal you set out to - there are no limits.”

Throughout the expedition he battled unpredictable weather; sleep deprivation and isolation - all whilst managing the additional challenges associated with his injuries.

“Recently I broke my prosthetic arm leaving me one-handed which is nothing I haven’t had to deal with previously, but it has made things a bit more difficult while sailing.

“However, I’ve actually found the whole thing to be a spiritual experience that has made me even more appreciative of the life I have been able to create for myself after everything that happened to me.

“It’s still my hope that by achieving this world record I can change the perception of disability, and show how sailing can transform the lives of those affected by trauma.

“It’s also been a chance for me to raise awareness and money for the two amazing charities who were there for me during my rehabilitation and recovery.”

Having gone through basic training as a rifleman in the British Army, Craig, from South Yorkshire, was posted to Afghanistan shortly after his 18th birthday. It was just three months into his first tour when his life was to change forever.

Craig lost both legs and his left hand in an IED (improvised explosive device) bomb blast on July 30th, 2009. He also suffered two collapsed lungs, lost 27 pints of blood and his face was ravaged by shrapnel.

It took eight months for Craig to learn to walk again and four-and-a-half years of rehabilitation work at the dedicated Headley Court facility in Surrey to improve his quality of life.  

His recovery was long, slow and painful – with over 20 operations over four years. It was a mental and physical battle, but one that fifteen years on he’s proving he’s winning.

To support Craig’s charity appeal for Blesma and Turn to Starboard please visit https://givestar.io/gs/mexico--japan-solo-sail-world-record

Image credit GD Media