Colin Cook

In a wild twist of fate, losing my leg brought me closer to living my dreams than ever before.

I’ve been obsessed with the ocean since I was a kid. On October 9, 2015, I survived every surfer’s worst nightmare—a brutal shark attack that took my left leg above the knee and almost took my life. But here’s the thing: that day wasn’t the end of my story. It was the beginning of the best chapter.

I refused to let this stop me from following my life passion. When I discovered no suitable above-knee surfing prosthetic existed, I designed and built my own. That invention didn’t just get me back in the water—it launched me onto the world stage of adaptive surfing. Today, I compete globally, I’ve won multiple international titles, and I’m a World Champion! including taking the top spot at the most prestigious event in the world, Access Surf’s Hawaii Adaptive Surfing Championships!! 

The last 10 years have forced me to grow in ways I never expected. I’ve learned to adapt physically, battle PTSD and anxiety, and turn pain into purpose. Now I use my platform to prove that no obstacle is final—and to inspire others to chase their passions regardless of what life throws at them.

My journey has been featured on HBO Real Sports, Surfer Magazine, Popular Science, and most recently in a 13-page cover story in Esquire magazine (links below).

I’m more than an athlete—I’m living proof that limitations are just starting points. I’d love to partner with brands that believe in resilience, innovation, and the power of never giving up. Let’s inspire the world together.

Instagram-

@captaincook_2 

Media Features:

– HBO Real Sports

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Zd6yqSbX9zQ

– Esquire Magazine (13-page feature)

https://www.esquire.com/lifestyle/a62480160/boston-marathon-shark-attack-love-story/

– Surfer Magazine

https://www.surfer.com/surfers/a-tiger-shark-took-his-leg-now-hes-surfing-more-then-ever

-Surfline 

https://www.surfline.com/surf-news/colin-cook-usa-surfing-champion-one-leg/5484