Britain's Chris Moon has become the first amputee to complete the Badwater Ultramarathon in Death Valley — considered one of the most gruelling sporting feats in the world.
The 50-year-old, who lost his right arm and leg in an explosion while supervising mine clearance in Mozambique in 1995, was the first amputee to even attempt the race - and managed to complete the 135-mile course in a time of 41 hours, 58 minutes and 38 seconds.
Photo courtesy of MTB Ltd
Moon has been working as a motivational speaker ever since his terrible accident in Africa.
Less than a year after leaving hospital he had run the London Marathon, and he now travels the world to compete in the toughest races on earth.
In September 2010 he successfully ran more than a marathon a day for 30 continuous days, covering over 1,000 miles.
His latest race in California is dubbed "the world's toughest foot race" and the runners compete non-stop in temperatures of up to 130F (55c).
As the race's press release reveals: "The start line is at Badwater, Death Valley, which marks the lowest elevation in North America at 280' (85m) below sea level. The race finishes at Mt. Whitney Portal at 8360' (2533m). The Badwater course covers three mountain ranges for a total of 13,000' (3962m) of cumulative vertical ascent and 4,700' (1433m) of cumulative descent."
Before setting off, Chris explained why he was running in the race: "I want to challenge the concept of limitation.
"I want to overcome physical challenges and show that I have not been weakened by the unfortunate things that sometimes happen.
"I run further now than I ever did before I was blown up.
"I have worked very hard and I want to keep going until I am in my 70s.
"I am driven by all sorts of things. What is life without aspirations?"
When he finally finished he tweeted: "Huge thanks for all your support. Time for a sleep!"
To learn more about Chris visit his website here.