Disabled swimmer, E.D. Baburaj created a URF Asia record today by swimming 10 kilometres with one hand in Alappuzha. The distance set is the longest by any handicapped swimmer over the disability rate of 35%.
He said, “Swimming has been my passion right from my childhood and despite my disability I have represented the University and state and taken part in numerous swimming events and have won prize.” The Kerala-based swimmer lost his hand at the age of 11. He ekes out a scanty living selling LIC policies, across the state.
Baburaj now holds the record for the largest distance swam by a disabled person in Asia. He swam 10 km on the widest part of the Vembanad lake that flows through the town of Alappuza in Kerala with one hand. He is 40 percent disabled.
Baburaj is determined to take part in the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation (IWAS) World Games in 2016, which is to be held in Sochi, Russia. This endeavour of his was an effort to arrange the Rs 3 lakh that he would need for travel and other expenses.
"I am now going to approach the state government...(it) should treat me as a record holder and in line of those who win awards in state and national events," said the 50-year old swimmer. He looks forward to take part in four events: 50 metres, 100 metres, 200 metres freestyle and 50 metres butterfly. With his left hand completely ineffective, it is his determination that keeps him going.
Baburaj wishes to train all those who want to learn swimming, once he comes back from Russia.
