On Board with Former Military Helicopter Pilot Anthony Radetic

Anthony Radetic is a man with a mission. He’s defying all odds—inspiring along the way. The once army helicopter pilot is now a full-fledged alpine skier and Pro PWC racer, and he does all of this while suffering from lower body paralysis. But Radetic doesn’t let anything get him down; in fact, he’s always elevating himself and those around him. 

His journey began when he was enlisted in the U.S. Army and was sent to Fort Benning, Georgia as an ASA parachute rigger, where he completed airborne school. While stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Radetic was selected for Special Forces, and later on, he completed the Army helicopter flight training course to become an Army aviator assigned to serve as a primary Blackhawk VIP pilot for the Post General. However, during advance course training, Radetic was struck by a motor-vehicle leaving him paralyzed. 

Six years later, Radetic tried skiing for the first time, fell in love with it, and moved to Aspen, Colorado to begin intensive training for international alpine skiing competitions. There, he landed his first backflip on a monoski. From there, Radetic’s passion for sports has taken him to handcycling, skiing, and personal watercraft racing, where we found him today as a pro endurance racer, 3x Iron Man champion, European Off-Shore champion, and Sea-Doo Ambassador. He embodies what it means to never stop living, and in everything he does, he moves with intention and passion. 

We had the honor of speaking with Radetic to hear about how he got to where he is today, as well as wise words of wisdom. It’s not everyday you get to speak with a hero, and Radetic truly is one.

The Wake Edit: How did you go from being an army helicopter pilot to a PWC pro?

Anthony Radetic: After my time as an Army helicopter pilot, life took a major turn when I was injured and became paralyzed. During recovery, I was searching for something that could give me that same sense of speed, focus, and purpose I had in aviation. That is when I found my way to personal watercraft racing. What started as a challenge during rehab quickly turned into a passion and eventually a professional career competing at the highest level.

TWE: What draws you to riding?

AR: It gives me freedom. On the water, there are no limitations, just performance, adrenaline, and precision. It brings back that feeling of being in control that I had as a pilot, and it allows me to compete head to head with able bodied athletes which pushes me every day.

TWE: How did you first start working with Sea-Doo? Have you always been a Sea-Doo guy?

AR: I started riding Sea-Doo early on, and it quickly became clear to me that it was the most ergonomic machine for my disability. The narrow seat and hull design make it much smoother and more controllable for me compared to flatter riding platforms. Over time that connection grew into a partnership. I have always believed in the brand and it has been incredible to work with a company that continues to push the limits of the sport.

TWE: You have overcome many challenges in your life, the most notable being your paralysis. What gives you the strength to move through this and other challenges?

AR: It comes down to mindset and purpose. I made a decision early on that I was not going to let my circumstances define me. Surrounding myself with the right people, setting goals, and continuing to challenge myself on and off the water has been key. I also feel a responsibility to inspire others who may be going through something similar.

TWE: What is the greatest piece of advice you could give someone?

AR: Do not let your situation dictate your potential. Everyone faces adversity, it is how you respond to it that defines you. Control what you can, stay disciplined, and keep pushing forward no matter what.

TWE: What do you see yourself doing in the next 5, 10 years?

AR: Continuing to compete at a high level while also growing the sport and giving back. I want to expand opportunities for adaptive athletes, continue building partnerships, and inspire the next generation, especially those who may not see a clear path forward yet.Follow what Anthony Radetic does next on Instagram