58 Pune school pupils swim 24-hour relay marathon, enter Asia Book of Records

Pune: Dhruv Global School has been entered in the Asia Book of Records. Fifty-eight students of the school took part in a relay swimming marathon that ran for 24 hours without a break, and the record was set on that basis. The event was held between October 8 and 9.

Dr Chitra Jain, adjudicator of the Asia Book of Records, said the school had set the record by registering the participation of 58 students in the 24-hour non-stop relay swimming marathon. According to her, the children gave an inspiring message of physical fitness, team spirit, discipline and determination through the event. Dr Jain was speaking on the occasion when it was announced that the 24-hour relay swimming marathon organised by the school had been entered in the record.

The event was a success under the guidance of school chairman Sanjay Malpani and directors Yashovardhan Malpani and Anishka Malpani. Principal Sangeeta Raut supported it. Sports coordinators Girish Tokse and Rohit Patil handled the planning. The teachers who coach the children in swimming, Smita Kathve, Rupali Anap, Vishal Narwade, Uma Joshi, Aniket Sardar and Kapilesh Harne, guided them. It was because of the planning, training and support of all of them that the children got the chance to take part in the 24-hour relay swimming marathon and have a record entered in the Asia Book of Records.

Sangeeta Raut said the competition gave the children not only the joy of victory but also the confidence to overcome life's challenges. The children have learnt from this experience the life mantra that consistency, determination and commitment are essential when facing any difficulty.

She said the day at the school begins for the children with sports, meditation and yoga. Looking after health alongside studies and keeping a balance in life are important. Any challenge can be overcome through dedication, commitment and perseverance, and this balance is the foundation of Dhruv's success.

Sangeeta Raut, principal, Dhruv Global School: "Behind this historic moment are the hard work of every student, the dedication of the trainers and the contribution of the entire sports team. The effort that teachers, trainers and organisers put in to prepare the children is praiseworthy. This proud moment has become a reality only through everyone's unity, and this achievement is a matter of pride for the school."

Dr Chitra Jain, adjudicator, Asia Book of Records: "Completing a 24-hour non-stop swimming marathon is no small achievement. It takes strength, stamina and the spirit never to give up. The children have set this record through hard work, dedication and confidence. Heartfelt congratulations to all the swimmers, trainers, teachers and parents on this success."

Bhumi Patil, a Class 4 student, said taking part in the swimming marathon was the biggest experience of her life. Her slot was from 2.30 pm to 3 pm. She felt very good because of the encouragement from the spectators. She was determined to keep swimming until the whistle blew. The experience will remain memorable for her always.