The 24th National Para Swimming Championships, organised by the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities in association with Paralympic Committee of India and Sports Authority of Goa, saw another thrilling day of events on Day 2, at the SAG Swimming Pool Complex, Campal. The competition continued to showcase the determination and talent of India’s para-athletes.
With more than 500 athletes from 28 states competing across a diverse range of categories, the event celebrates not only sportsmanship but also the nation’s commitment to inclusivity in sports. The atmosphere was electric, with participants performing at their peak and spectators showing their full support.
The swimming events on Day 2 covered a range of freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, and butterfly strokes, categorised by both gender and classification. Some of the most anticipated categories included:
50M Freestyle (Male and Female): Classifications S-1 to S-13
200M Freestyle (Mixed): Classification S-14
50M Breaststroke (Male and Female): Classifications SB-1 to SB-13
100M Backstroke (Male and Female): Classifications S-1 to S-14
50M and 100M Butterfly Stroke (Male and Female): Classifications S-1 to S-14
The inclusion of varying classifications based on disability ensures that the competition remains fair and inclusive, allowing athletes of different physical abilities to compete against their peers.
The S classifications cover a wide range of disabilities, from those with physical impairments (S-1 being the most severe) to those with visual impairments or intellectual disabilities (S-14).
Several standout performances were witnessed on the second day. In the 50M Freestyle events, athletes in the S-9 and S-10 classifications displayed immense skill and speed, with close finishes keeping the audience at the edge of their seats. The 100M Butterfly Stroke saw a gripping race in the S-6 classification, where athletes battled it out in a tight contest.
The competition also saw rising stars from across the country making a mark. Young para-swimmers from states like Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Punjab delivered incredible performances.
The 24th National Para Swimming Competition continues to be a critical stepping stone for many athletes who aspire to compete on international platforms like the Asian Para Games and the Paralympic Games. The exposure and experience gained from competing in such a large-scale event help athletes prepare for future international challenges.
The final day of the competition, 22nd October 2024, promises to be a spectacular conclusion, with several more medal events and the much-anticipated closing ceremony. The competition will end with the crowning of the champions across various categories, marking the achievements of all athletes who have performed with passion and determination over the last two days.
