Adventure swimmer Elvis Ali Hazarika has created history by becoming the first person from Assam to complete a 350-kilometre open sea relay swim, a challenging feat that lasted nearly four days. The relay swim concluded on the afternoon of February 9, marking an important achievement not only for the swimmer but also for adventure sports in the state.
The swim began in the early hours of February 6 in the waters off Goa. According to Hazarika, the start of the journey was filled with nervousness and excitement as the team entered the open sea before sunrise. Over the next several days, the relay team took turns swimming, steadily covering the long distance while facing rough sea conditions, strong tides, and physical exhaustion. Hazarika played a key role in the relay, spending long hours in the water and pushing through difficult conditions.
Speaking after completing the relay, Hazarika described the experience as unforgettable and physically demanding. He said that the swim tested both his mental strength and physical stamina. During the journey, swimmers also encountered jellyfish in several stretches of the sea, adding to the difficulty. Despite these challenges, he said he remained focused throughout the mission and did not allow doubts to affect his determination.
Preparation for the swim involved months of open-water training, strict fitness routines, and regular meditation to maintain mental focus. Hazarika said such long-distance swims require strong teamwork, proper planning, and constant coordination with the support crew, which followed the swimmers in a boat for safety and guidance.
The swimmer said that his main motivation has always been to push his own limits and inspire young people from Assam to take up open-water swimming. When he first began participating in channel swimming events, there were very few participants from the state. Over the years, he has seen growing interest among young swimmers who now want to attempt similar challenges.