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Key Points

Avinash Thadani from Mumbai has made the city proud by conquering the English Channel. He swam solo for 22 grueling hours from England to France. This was his second attempt after his first try ended last year. He now joins an elite group of Indian swimmers who have achieved this incredible feat.

Key Points: Mumbai's Avinash Thadani Conquers English Channel in 22 Hours

  • Completed the 32-km swim on his second attempt after 2023 failure
  • Trained at CCI pool and in frigid Irish waters for acclimatization
  • Previously swam the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka
  • Joins elite group of 60-plus Indians to achieve this historic feat
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Mumbai's Avinash Thadani conquers English channel in 22 hours

45-year-old Mumbaikar Avinash Thadani braved icy waters and powerful currents to complete the grueling 32-km solo swim on his second attempt.

"Braving icy waters and powerful currents - Press Release"

Mumbai, September 3

Braving icy waters and powerful currents, 45-year-old Mumbaikar Avinash Thadani successfully swam solo across the English Channel, completing the gruelling 32-km stretch in 22 hours.

Starting at Shakespeare Beach, England, on August 24, Thadani reached Cap Gris Nez, France, on his second attempt at the feat. His first try in 2023 ended after 10 hours, but sheer determination pushed him to return stronger.

To prepare, Thadani trained at the Cricket Club of India pool in Mumbai and in the frigid waters of Ireland, focusing on both endurance and acclimatisation. Channel waters hover around 16-18°C in August, adding to the difficulty, as per a press release from Avinash's media team.

Earlier this year, Thadani also swam the Palk Strait between India and Sri Lanka, adding to his list of endurance milestones that already includes marathons and an Ironman triathlon in Copenhagen, Denmark.

With this achievement, he joins the ranks of 60-plus Indians who have conquered the Channel, a challenge first achieved by Mihir Sen in 1958.

The Channel remains one of the world's toughest swims, its completion times range from 7 to 27 hours, with swimmers battling currents, waves, jellyfish, seaweed, and heavy shipping traffic.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Amazing! But I wish our media gave more coverage to such real heroes instead of just film stars. This man trained at CCI pool and Ireland's cold waters - true dedication. Respect! 👏
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Sarah B
As someone who's tried swimming in cold water, I can't even imagine 22 hours! The mental fortitude required is just mind-blowing. Congratulations to Mr. Thadani - you've made India proud!
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Aman W
Failed first attempt but came back stronger - that's the real story here. Most people would have given up. This is the kind of resilience we need to teach our children. Bahut badhiya!
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Karthik V
Palk Strait AND English Channel? This man is a swimming machine! 🏊‍♂️ Hope the government recognizes such achievements with proper awards. We need more role models like him.
M
Michael C
Incredible feat! The English Channel is one of the most challenging swims in the world with currents, jellyfish, and shipping traffic. Hats off to his determination and preparation.

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