Navi Mumbai: A remarkable feat was achieved as 17-year-old Ashvin Saravana Kumar, a class XII science student from Lodha World School, Palava, completed a challenging open water swim in the Arabian Sea recently. He created a new record by swimming 25 km from Khanderi Island (Kanhoji Angre Light House) to Gateway of India in 4 hours 48 minutes. The route, known for its difficult conditions including strong winds, currents, and high waves, has seen only one previous attempt by a Pune swimmer in 2006. After 19 years, Kumar successfully navigated this channel, becoming the fastest swimmer on this route.
His record feat was ratified by Maharashtra State Amateur Aquatic Association that monitored the event. Kumar confronted challenging sea conditions with steadfast determination. His exceptional timing of 4 hours 48 minutes demonstrates his physical prowess and mental strength, establishing a new standard, said an official certifying his achievement.
Kumar’s impressive portfolio includes over 70 podium finishes across various disciplines including pool swimming, open water, triathlon, aquathlon, and marathon swimming. At the age of 13, he set an unbroken record of 4 hours 45 minutes swimming the 20 km strait from Dabhol to Guhagar.
A student at Rupali Repale Swimming Academy, Kumar trains under National Youth Awardee and Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award recipient Rupali Repale and National medallist swimmer Aniruddha Mahadik.
His coach Repale said, “Kumar’s dedication and hard work have paid off. Despite rough sea conditions, he managed to set a new record, showcasing talent.”
