IRON WARRIORS Team of Veterans, With Support from Oschadbank and Mastercard, Successfully Finished at Oceanman Lago d’Orta and Qualified for the World Finals

Oschadbank and Mastercard partnered with the IRON WARRIORS initiative to support the participation of Ukrainian veterans with severe injuries and amputations in the international Oceanman Lago d’Orta swim on June 13-14 in Italy.

The team consists of five veterans who, after severe injuries, amputations, and a long recovery, have returned to an active life through sports. Thanks to Oschadbank’s support, the team was able to undergo a full training cycle leading up to the race and participate in one of the most renowned international open-water swimming competitions.

“For Oschadbank, supporting veterans is a logical step in its strategic inclusive program ‘My Accessibility’ and a testament to the Bank’s consistent commitment to veterans’ rehabilitation through sports, their social integration, and their return to civilian life. The very idea of these five daredevils challenging their own limits, competing against the forces of open water, and proving that a person and the strength of their spirit can achieve practically anything confirms the restorative and rehabilitative power of sports. That is why we support such initiatives, as we want them to become an example and a role model for other severely wounded individuals. Life after trauma is possible,” said Anton Tiutiun, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of Oschadbank.

Three team members – Ihor Bystryi, Serhii Khrapko, and Volodymyr Shanaida – covered a 2-kilometer distance, while two others – Ivan Khalupa and Ihor Oliinyk – swam 5 kilometers. They competed on equal footing with the other participants in the swim and achieved impressive results, which helped them qualify for the world finals.

“The swim was an incredible experience. For me, it was an opportunity to test myself and see if I could cover such a distance in open water,” said team member Volodymyr Shanaida.

“The trip was incredible. I was particularly struck by the support from the Ukrainian diaspora in Italy – we were given a very warm welcome, and that gave us strength and motivation. As for the swim itself, I managed to accomplish everything I had planned and even exceed my own expectations.  For me, this is a valuable experience and a great personal victory,” said Ivan Khalupa.

The IRON WARRIORS project aims to highlight the role of sports in the physical and psychological recovery of veterans after severe injuries and to draw attention to the possibilities of rehabilitation through structured training, community support, and participation in international sporting events.

Support from Oschadbank and Mastercard was a key component in bringing the project to life and helped cover some of the costs associated with the team’s training and the veterans’ participation in the international competition.

Oschadbank consistently supports the recovery of wounded veterans through adaptive sports. The Bank sponsors amputee soccer in Ukraine, is a partner of the “Match for Heroes” charity tournament and the “League of the Strong” social project, and supports Ukraine’s National Paralympic Team.

Oschadbank has signed a memorandum with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine on the joint development of an accessible environment for physical education. The partners intend to implement rehabilitation and social integration programs for veterans and people with disabilities, particularly through physical activity; organize inclusive sports and educational events; and promote a non-discriminatory approach in sports.