Making Waves: Ashvin Saravana Kumar’s Record-Breaking Journey

By Lodha

At just 17, Palava resident Ashvin Saravana Kumar is making the community proud with feats in endurance swimming that inspire awe and admiration. A Class XII Science student at Lodha World School, Ashvin recently completed a 25 km solo open-water swim from Khanderi (Kanhoji Angre Island) to the Gateway of India in a record 4 hours 48 minutes - a route attempted only once before due to fierce winds and challenging currents.

“From the moment I swam my first open-water event, I knew this was my calling. Each challenge taught me resilience, and this recent swim was another test of mind over matter,” says Ashvin.

“Despite the rough sea conditions, Ashvin set a new record, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination,” adds his coach, Rupali Repale, at Olympics Sports Centre, a National Youth Awardee and Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Awardee.

Ashvin’s courage was evident even at 13, when a jellyfish sting paralyzed his arm 17 km into a 20 km swim - yet he completed it, setting a record that still stands. Since then, he has conquered landmark swims like the 36 km Dharamtar–Gateway stretch, twice won the 16 km National Kochi Swimathon, and claimed podiums in over 70 events across open water, triathlon, and aquathlon.

He credits Palava’s supportive ecosystem for helping him balance academics and sport. “Having an Olympic Size swimming pool and school nearby saves time and gives me the best of both worlds,” Ashvin shares. His parents add, “This development is a blessing. It allows him to pursue his dreams while ensuring academics are also at par.”

With his eyes set on representing India at the Olympics, Ashvin is more than an achiever - he is a source of pride for Palava, embodying courage, discipline, and serving as an inspiration for many more.