Kerala: A 50-year-old disabled Keralite has swum his way into the URF Asian Records.
With 40 per cent disability, E. D. Baburaj, on August 18, swam 10km at the widest part of the Vembanad lake, which flows through in Kerala, officials said on Tuesday.
“I am now going to approach the state government ...[it] should treat me as a record holder and in line of those who win awards in state and national events,” an elated Baburaj said.
The URF Asian Records is on a par with the Asian record title and is recognised globally.
Baburaj, who through his swimming efforts qualified for the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation (IWAS) World Games in Sochi in Russia, could not take part in the event after he failed to arrange Rs300,000 (Dh16,620) for his travel and other expenses.
Baburaj, who earns his living by selling LIC policies, had an accident when he was 11 and lost his left hand.
He said despite his disability, he has taken part in various university and state level swimming competitions and won awards.
