CITY’S divyang (mentally retarded) swimmers Shubham Dutta and Kabir Dhumne excelled in the third State-level Sea Swimming Competition that was jointly organised by Maharashtra State Amateur Swimming Association and Ratnagiri District Swimming Association in Ratnagiri. Shubham and Kabir, competing in the mentally disabled group successfully completed the one kilometre sea swimming in the stipulated time finishing in the top ten. The young duo braved huge waves and showed courage in overcoming challenges and difficult conditions at sea.

 

Both Shubham and Kabir regularly train at NIT swimming pool under the watchful eyes of NIS swimming coach Sanjay Batwe and Sagar Bopulkar. It is because of the hard work and guidance of Batwe, who is much known for training physically and mentally challenged swimmers including blind and those with down syndrome, that Shubham and Kabir could deliver such a remarkable performance. Office-bearers of the Shark Aquatic Sporting Association, parents and sports enthusiasts showered praise on both the swimmers who now have become source of inspiration for upcoming swimmers.