In a major accomplishment, para-swimmer Mohammad Shams Aalam Shaikh has made history by becoming the first swimmer with paraplegia to complete the longest open-water swim at the National Takshila Open Water Swimming Competition in Patna.
Originating from Rathaus in Bihar’s Madhubani district, Aalam swam a challenging 13 kilometres along the Ganga River, from Janardan Ghat to Law College Ghat, clocking 2 hours, 3 minutes, and 13 seconds. His feat, certified by the World Records Union, placed him 32nd among 50 participants, which included fellow para-athlete Anil Kumar from Patna.
This marked the 14th edition of the event, organised by the Bihar Swimming Association and affiliated with the Swimming Federation of India.
Aalam shares his experience and challenges
SAalam reflected on the experience. He initially anticipated finishing in one hour and forty-five minutes but was delayed by dehydration due to a late start. Despite this, he expressed satisfaction with his performance, saying, “It took longer than expected, but overall, it went well.” He said, according to TOI.
Not his first open-water event
This record-breaking feat is not Aalam’s first open-water challenge; in 2019, he completed a 2 km swim in the Ganga. “I was eagerly waiting for this event after a two-year break,” he noted. Preparation focused on endurance, especially after his recent success at the National Para-Swimming Championship in Goa, where he won gold, silver, and bronze medals in various categories.
Endurance and fear of the unknown
Aalam highlighted the difference between pool and open-water swimming. Pool swimming, he explained, is more physically challenging due to the stable water, whereas open-water swimming benefits from natural currents. However, he pointed out unique concerns in rivers, such as potential encounters with wildlife or debris, particularly following the recent Chhath Puja festival. “I am happy that it went very well today,” he concluded, expressing relief at completing this achievement.
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