Guwahati, February 5: Seven-year-old swimmer Kiuchenghan Phukon has etched her name in sporting history by becoming the world’s youngest swimmer to complete the iconic open-sea route from Elephanta Island to the Gateway of India.
Kiuchenghan accomplished the demanding 13-km swim in 3 hours and 29 minutes across the Arabian Sea in Mumbai on February 4, also emerging as the first female swimmer from Northeast India to achieve the feat.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma congratulated the young swimmer for her extraordinary achievement, saying she has made Assam proud on the global stage. The Chief Minister also lauded her coach Babul Gurung for his guidance and dedication, wishing him continued success.
The historic feat was announced by Assam Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare Nandita Gorlosa, who said Kiuchenghan’s performance showcased the immense potential of young sporting talent from the state.
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Trained at the Dr Zakir Hussain Aquatic Complex at Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati, Kiuchenghan prepared under Gurung’s coaching for the challenging open-water swim. The achievement has been officially recognised by the Open Water Amateur Aquatics Federation (OWAAF)
Sports officials and enthusiasts hailed the accomplishment as a landmark moment for Assam and the Northeast, saying it reflects the region’s growing presence in national and international sports and serves as an inspiration for young athletes across the country.
