First Indian para-swimmer crosses S Africa sea stretch
Times of India | 12 April 2024
Kolkata: Rimo Saha from Howrah swam across a 7.4-km stretch from Robben Island to Blouberg in South Africa last month, emerging as the first Indian para-swimmer to attain the feat. He overcame post-polio disability in his leg, freezing waters and constant threats of jellyfish attacks to reach the finishing line in two hours and 37 minutes.
Thirty-two-year-old Saha had earlier crossed the North Channel and the English Channel twice, but his South Africa’s swim was historic as it was a solo event, while the earlier ones were part of relays.“While the distance between Robben Island and Blouberg is 7.4 km, due to high and low tides, the actual distance I travelled was about 12 km,” he said.
Saha faced extreme conditions during his swim as the water temperatures was as low as 9° Celsius, which he described as the coldest he had ever experienced. Saha had to also overcome a recent rib injury as well as constant threat of jellyfish stings. The obstacles notwithstanding, Saha said his upper arm strength compensate for his disability and helped him reach the finishing line.
Saha is part of a community of around 50 para-swimmers from Bengal who compete at the national level. Other endurance swimmers felt his achievement was a testament to his determination and resilience in the face of adversity.