Pune: 65 Year Old Shirish Patki Achieves Historic 16 km Solo Sea Swim From Gateway Of India To Atal SetuÂ
Pune: 65 Year Old Shirish Patki Achieves Historic 16 km Solo Sea Swim From Gateway Of India To Atal SetuÂ
Pune, November 22, 2024: Pune resident from Neco Sky Park, Vishal Nagar Pimple Nilakh and retired banker, Shirish Anant Patki (65), accomplished a remarkable feat by completing a solo 16 km sea swim from Gateway of India to Atal Setu in 4 hours and 17 minutes on November 17, 2024. The event, held on a chilly Sunday morning, was organized by Mumbai Sea Swimmers under the supervision of the Maharashtra Amateur Aquatic Association.
Patki’s achievement stands out as he believes that no Indian at his age has previously attempted or completed a solo swim of more than 15 kilometers. This extraordinary accomplishment cements his place as a trailblazer in Indian aquatic sports.
Once an avid badminton player, Patki turned to swimming at the age of 50 after a major bike accident led to the removal of his right hand radial head. Swimming became his passion, and he has since won numerous medals and trophies at state and national swimming competitions.
Reflecting on the event, Patki described overcoming initial challenges, including navigating waste in the sea, and battling fatigue as the swim progressed. However, his determination carried him to the finish line under the Atal Setu Bridge, India’s longest bridge.
“I stood at the starting point with my heart racing—not from fear, but from the adrenaline of this challenge,” Patki said, recounting the unforgettable experience.
