Simon Harmer, a former British Army medic and double amputee, has become the first person without legs to swim across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. The 50-year-old completed the 2.7-mile swim from Gosport, Hampshire, in one hour and 40 minutes on Saturday, accompanied by his friend Mark Ryan, 64.

Harmer lost both legs after stepping on an improvised explosive device (IED) during his service in Afghanistan. Despite the physical challenges, he successfully navigated the route, which is known for strong currents and marine life, including jellyfish. Harmer described the experience as rewarding, noting that while some adaptations were necessary, determination enabled him to accomplish the feat.

Ryan, a writer who met Harmer at a swimming pool in Winchester, supported Harmer throughout the swim. He described the experience as demanding but highlighted Harmer’s resilience and leadership during the latter part of the journey, when Ryan began to tire. “If you have been through some of the things that he has been through, you don’t get fazed,” Ryan said.

The swim marks a significant achievement for Harmer and underscores the possibilities for athletes with disabilities to undertake major endurance challenges.