Doncaster triple-amputee sailor nominated for disability award

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 8 Oct, 15:55 · Archive

Craig Wood, a triple amputee who sailed solo across the Pacific Ocean, has been nominated for a Variety Disability Sports Awards inspiration award.

Craig Wood, a 33-year-old from Doncaster and British Army veteran, has been nominated for an inspiration award at the Variety Disability Sports Awards. He made history as the first triple amputee to sail solo, non-stop and unsupported across the Pacific Ocean, completing the 7,506-nautical-mile journey from Mexico to Japan in 90 days in 2025.

Wood lost both legs and his left hand in a blast from an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan in 2009, when he was 18 and three months into his first tour in Sangin, southern Afghanistan. After discovering sailing during his rehabilitation, he took up the sport to help rebuild his confidence.

Describing the voyage as both 'incredibly amazing' and 'overwhelming', Wood said of the nomination: 'I'm a guy from Doncaster, I never thought I'd be put on this road of my life earning awards. It's just phenomenal.' The Variety children's charity launched the awards in 2023 to celebrate achievements in the disability sports community.

Wood, a father-of-four, now works with veterans teaching sailing and supporting those affected by trauma. He hopes to train as a counsellor and use his boat to support fellow veterans.

How it is being reported

• Award nomination 'phenomenal', says veteran amputeeCraig Wood is the first triple amputee to sail solo, non-stop and unsupported across the Pacific Ocean.BBC South Yorkshire · 8 Oct, 15:35
• Doncaster triple-amputee sailor nominated for prestigious sports awardCraig sailed across the Pacific Ocean in a difficult and dangerous voyageDoncaster Free Press · 7 Oct, 14:17

In this story: Craig Wood · Doncaster · Afghanistan · Pacific Ocean · Mexico · Japan · Variety Disability Sports Awards

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