Nanganallur teen makes a splash in swimming competition

| S VENKATESHWARAN |

J. Akilesh (15), a class 9B student of Nehru Government Boys
Higher Secondary School, Nanganallur, has achieved a
remarkable feat in long-distance swimming by completing an
81-km, open water race in West Bengal.
The 80th Open Water Long Distance Swimming Competition
2026 was held Sunday, September 6, in the river Bhagirathi
near Berhampore, West Bengal. Representing the SDAT AGS
Complex, Tamil Nadu, Akilesh completed the challenging 81-
km distance in 12 hours, 16 minutes and 53 seconds.
At just 15 years, Akilesh became the first boy in the age group
to complete the race, making the achievement particularly
special. Swimming such a long distance in open water requires
tremendous stamina, mental strength and careful preparation.
The competition was organised by the Murshidabad Swimming
Association, affiliated to the Bengal Amateur Swimming
Association, and recognised by the Swimming Federation of
India.
Akilesh has been undergoing dedicated training under Mr. G.
Guhanathan, swimming coach, Sports Development Authority
of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), Velachery. His success is a result of
regular training, discipline and determination.
For Nanganallur, the achievement is a proud moment as a
young student from the locality has taken on one of the

toughest challenges in long-distance swimming and completed
it successfully.
Akilesh’s achievement is an encouraging example for young
sportspersons. His determination at such a young age shows
what can be achieved when consistent training and dedication
come together.