Hector Varela joined the Navy in 1988, wanting to leave his small farm town and see the world. He is proud of his career achievements particularly his rank. In 2012 he was injured in a motorcycle accident which resulted in an above the knee ampuation of his left leg. Since his injury he has enjoyed playing wheelchair basketball and adaptive surfing. He will be competing in Cycling, Field-Discus, Shot Put, Sitting Volleyball, Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair Rugby.