In a remarkable display of human resilience and determination, an Egyptian naval officer who was left quadriplegic after a tragic car crash has made history by setting a new world record for scuba diving. Walaa Hafez has been certified by Guinness World Records as the first-ever quadriplegic man to achieve the longest scuba dive in a controlled environment (male) (CI1), with a time of 6 hours, 4 minutes, and 45 seconds.
The record, which was broken at the naval base in Alexandria, is a testament to Hafez’s indomitable spirit. His journey began after a car accident in 2011 left him with a severe spinal cord injury. Confined to a wheelchair, he refused to let his physical limitations define him. A lifelong lover of the sea, he spent years training and adapting his diving techniques to his new reality, with the support of a dedicated team.
The CI1 classification in his record title refers to Guinness World Records’ impairment classifications, which are designed to make record-breaking accessible to people with disabilities. Hafez’s record is a powerful statement about inclusivity and the importance of creating opportunities for people of all abilities.
Hafez, who has since become a motivational speaker, said he hopes his record will inspire other people with disabilities to pursue their passions. “This achievement is not just for me,” he said. “It is for every person who has been told they can’t do something because of their physical condition.”
Hafez’s incredible feat is a testament to the idea that the human spirit is not bound by physical limitations and that with courage and determination, anything is possible.
