Daijiworld Media Network - Gwalior

Gwalior, Feb 12: International para swimmer Satendra Singh Lohiya has etched his name in history by successfully swimming across New Zealand’s Cook Strait, widely regarded as one of the most challenging open-water channels in the world.

With this achievement, the 38-year-old Padma Shri awardee (2024) has become the first para swimmer from Asia to conquer the treacherous stretch of sea. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav congratulated Lohiya, calling the feat a proud milestone for both the state and the country.

In a message shared on social media, Yadav praised Lohiya’s “indomitable spirit and unwavering determination,” noting that his accomplishment would inspire generations to come.

Lohiya, who has limited mobility in both legs, hails from Gata village in Bhind district of Madhya Pradesh’s Gwalior-Chambal region. Over the years, he has built an impressive record in long-distance open-water swimming. He previously completed a 33-km sea swim circuit in Mumbai in 5 hours and 42 minutes.

In 2018, Lohiya was part of a team that crossed the 36-km English Channel, completing his stretch in 12 hours and 26 minutes. The following year, he successfully swam across the Catalina Channel in the United States, further cementing his reputation on the global stage.

For his extraordinary achievements, Lohiya received the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award in 2020, becoming the first para-athlete to be honoured with the award. He was also presented with the Vikram Award, Madhya Pradesh’s highest sports honour, in 2014, and the National Award for Best Sportsperson in 2021. In 2024, he was conferred the Padma Shri in recognition of his contribution to sports.

His latest triumph at the Cook Strait adds another remarkable chapter to an already inspiring sporting journey.