Colin O'Brady Overcame Severe Burns to Become a Two-Time World Record Holder

Doctors told Colin O’Brady he’d never walk the same after suffering 3rd degree burns on 25% of his body — now he’s attempting to cross Antarctica solo.

“You know, I wouldn’t wish that burn accident on anyone. But to be able to get through this and learn so much has given me a tremendous amount of strength,” he said.

O’Brady’s life changed in 2008 during a trip to Thailand when a flaming jump rope wrapped around his legs and ignited his body. He underwent eight surgeries at a local hospital and spent months slowly healing. While in the hospital, his mom inspired him to set a goal and he decided he would work toward racing a triathlon. He has since represented the U.S. as a professional triathlete in 25 countries.
“As humans, we have just reservoirs of untapped potential inside of us,” he explained.

O’Brady and his wife Jenna set a new goal to conquer the Explorer’s Grand Slam. This meant traveling to both poles and completing the Seven Summits. He climbed all seven peaks in a record breaking 132 days, including his polar trips, he finished the Explorer’s Grand Slam in a record 139 days.

His newest, most ambitious journey is attempting to be the first to cross Antarctica solo and unaided.