Unfortunately we regularly post Hero workouts for servicemen and women who make the ultimate sacrifice during battle. Today we celebrate a true Hero who survived his ordeal! David De Souza (Disco) was working for private security company Aegis in Tikrit when he intercepted a suicide bomber’s vehicle as it sped towards his client's vehicle. Disco drove out of the convoy in his 4×4 to block the suicide bomber and to protect a company boss who was travelling in a vehicle in front of him. He rammed into the suicide bomber’s vehicle at high speed, smashing into it before coming off the road and rolling over six times. The incident, on December 20, 2007, left Disco with a severe head injury and a broken back. He is now unable to work because of memory problems and was also suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. A year ago, the 36-year-old, who lives in Ashwood, Kearsley, was unable to run more than mile, but was preparing to take part in Tough Mudder, a gruelling 12-mile obstacle course in Malpas, Cheshire, in memory of his niece, Maddie Rose Gooch.
Having spent many years as a Royal Marine, Close Protection Officer and Emergency Medical Technician I have been privileged to hear and witness many acts of courage. However, Disco’s action on that day stand out as the most heroic that I have ever known. Disco instilled confidence into our team, safety and professionalism. Without him we would’ve been weak.
A year on we shall celebrate his achievement and complete his workout on the anniversary of Maddie's birthday.
We at Reebok CrossFit Cardiff dedicate this workout to David De Souza, Disco.
“Disco”
10 Rounds for time of:
Sprint 50m 12 Double Kettlebell Cleans (24kg/16kg) 6 Double Kettlebell STOH (24kg/16kg) Sprint 50m
Each time the KBs are dropped the athlete will perform 18 unbroken Double unders.
