Para-swimmer Rimo Saha has recently achieved a lot of recognition and fame for being the first Indian Bengali to cross the English Channel twice. Saha, who suffers from post-polio disabilities in his right leg and has braved many a rough sea, jellyfish bite, and impending shark in his career, has climbed to remarkable heights by dint of his dedication and passion for swimming. Having won eight gold, 37 silver and 17 bronze medals in the National Para-Swimming Championships, along with an additional 16 gold medals in open-water sea swimming competitions tucked under his belt, Saha made history in 2018 by crossing the English Channel and setting a national record. The following year, he achieved an Asian Record by conquering the Catalina Channel twice.
In Calcutta on February 28, just ahead of his next saltwater expeditions — Robben Island to Blaauwberg (March 10) and Robben Island to Three Anchor Bay (March 13/14) in South Africa, Saha was felicitated by Shrachi Group, who will support him in his forthcoming swimming ventures. A quick t2 chat.
As the first Indian Bengali para-swimmer to accomplish such great swimming feats, how does it feel to be a trailblazer in your field?
It feels great. Especially when I raise the Indian flag on foreign shores, it feels amazing. Every swim comes with its own experience and achieving success is a part of that experience.
Who would you say has inspired you throughout your career? Are there any athletes you look up to?
Yes, I’ve always been very inspired by my coach Rohan More. I’m about to go to South Africa for two sets of long-distance swimming soon, and he has sent me his best wishes. I was also very inspired by Masudur Baidya. He’s not with us anymore, sadly, but he was the first para-swimmer from Bengal who crossed the English Channel. I was very inspired by him, and we attended some programmes together, so I have good memories with him, too.
What motivates you to take on challenges?
The greatest motivation comes from my parents. They have always supported me. I’ve struggled a lot to reach where I am today, and it’s thanks to them that I can harbour any dreams I have. I want to receive a National Award someday.
Speaking of the future, what are your goals and aspirations? Are there any particular places or locations you dream of swimming in?
As I said, I’m about to do two legs of long-distance swimming in South Africa, which will be on the 10th and 13th, or perhaps 14th, of March. I’m waiting for the latter date to be confirmed, and I’ve been thinking of going to Poland afterwards. There’s a place a little farther off from Warsaw and I’ve been contemplating going for that in August. So, I want to do three solo swims this year. I eventually want to swim the seven seas!
What message do you have for aspiring swimmers or individuals facing physical challenges?
Everything depends on practice. The amount of time and dedication you give to the water is what the water will return to you. Try to make it your life goal to cross the seven seas, and remember to do local open-water swimming before you try for international platforms. And if I, being a para-swimmer with a limp in my leg, can achieve things like this, then I hope my story can be inspiring for all. So, keep practising, and remember to keep up the right sort of mentality too.
