Mohammad Shams Alam Sheikh Makes History as First Indian Para Swimmer to Complete 13 km Open Water Swim

In a remarkable display of resilience and determination, Mohammad Shams Alam Sheikh, a para swimmer from Rathos village in Bihar's Madhubani district, has made history by becoming the first Indian para swimmer to complete a 13 km open water swim. Shams triumphed in the National Takshila Open Water Swimming event held in Patna, covering the distance from Shiv Ghat Digha to Law College Ghat along the Ganges river. He completed this arduous course in two hours, three minutes, and 13 seconds, earning recognition from the World Records Union.

The event, organized by the Bihar Swimming Association in collaboration with the Swimming Federation of India, showcased Shams' consistent excellence and unyielding spirit. The 38-year-old swimmer’s career began with martial arts, where he earned a black belt. However, a severe spinal cord condition and an unsuccessful surgery at age 24 left him paralyzed below the waist. Refusing to let this setback define him, Shams was encouraged by his doctor, family, and community to pursue swimming, which he turned into a platform for breaking records.

Shams also demonstrated his prowess at a recent Para-Swimming Championship in Goa, where he won gold, silver, and bronze medals across three categories. Reflecting on his latest accomplishment, Shams said, “When I learned about this competition, I dedicated myself to preparing for it. Open water swimming is vastly different from pool swimming—it presents unique challenges and potential dangers. I’m grateful everything went smoothly, allowing me to achieve my goal.”

Shams Alam’s historic achievement is not just a personal victory but a testament to the power of resilience and the unwavering spirit of those who face physical challenges yet rise to set extraordinary records.

Reference:

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