Posted August 25, 2023 | 1:43 PM
David Caras is a highly decorated United States Coast Guard retiree who competes in the Adaptive Sports Veterans Sports program
David Caras, a highly decorated retiree from the United States Coast Guard (USCG), has found comfort and purpose through his participation in Hillsborough County’s Veterans Sports program. Despite losing his leg while teaching military members to fly and work on the C-130 Hercules, David has emerged as an exceptional athlete, competing in precision air rifle, and forming strong connections within the veteran community.
A colleague at the Department of Veterans Affairs Sports and Recreation Department introduced David to the County’s Veterans Sports program and informed him of the opportunities for injured veterans to participate in precision air rifle. While in the Coast Guard, David was a member of the first-place high-power service pistol and rifle team. Despite the life-altering injury, David maintained a passion for marksmanship, and now he has a chance to train and compete again.
The County’s Adaptive Sports program partners with the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital and the Wounded Warrior Project to provide programming for Veterans free of cost. The program aims to provide safe activities for veterans to participate in while also promoting health and independence. The program also offers vital support and resources to help participants improve their skills and performance in their chosen sports.
David Caras, a United States Coast Guard disabled veteran, competes in a precision air rifle competition with the County’s Veterans Sports program.
David actively competes in precision air rifle, and the sport allows him to utilize his marksmanship skills and engage in friendly competition. In his first precision air rifle competition at the 2023 Texas Regionals, he finished fifth out of 90 participants. Even though he used a borrowed rifle, the performance showcased his talent and determination. It was a significant accomplishment. David is also interested in participating in other events, such as triathlons and powerlifting.
The Veterans Sports program has also created a supportive community for residents who share similar experiences. The program has provided David the opportunity to meet new friends and to make connections based on shared pasts and interests. Witnessing the achievements of challenged athletes – especially the kids – is a source of inspiration for David, and he has formed close bonds with fellow veterans, coaches, and parents of the young athletes.
David is a remarkable veteran athlete who has overcome adversity and found a renewed sense of purpose through the County’s Veterans Sports program. David’s commitment to precision air rifle, his strong connections within the veteran community, and his unwavering spirit inspire others to persevere and embrace the transformative power of sports.
To find out more about the Veterans Sports program visit, HCFLGov.net/Adaptive
