Mohammad Shams Aalam Shaikh, an accomplished para swimmer from Bihar, made headlines at the 24th National Para Swimming Championship held in Goa, where he showcased his exceptional talent and determination. Competing among 518 athletes from 28 states, Aalam secured an impressive haul of three medals: one gold, one silver, and one bronze, solidifying his status as one of India’s leading para-athletes.
At 38 years old, Shams Aalam has built a remarkable career in para-swimming, having once held the esteemed title of World No. 1 in the men’s 100m butterfly (S5 category) and the men’s 50m breaststroke (SB4 category). His participation in this championship highlighted his resilience and skill, as he competed against a strong field of swimmers from across the nation.
Aalam’s gold medal came in the 200m Individual Medley SM5 category, where he recorded an impressive time of 4:43:18. This victory was a testament to his hard work and dedication. He also excelled in the 100m freestyle S5 category, clinching silver with a time of 1:56:63, and secured bronze in the 100m butterfly S5 category, finishing in 2:11:71. Each of these performances reflected his exceptional abilities and competitive spirit, particularly in a challenging environment.
Originally from Rathaus Village in the Madhubani District of Bihar, Shams Aalam's journey in para-swimming began in 2012. He was part of a contingent of 12 athletes representing Bihar at the championship, where he stood out not only for his accomplishments but also for his inspiring attitude towards competition. Fellow athlete Mohit Kumar also had a notable performance, winning two gold medals, further emphasizing Bihar's strong presence in the event.
Reflecting on his success, Aalam shared insights about the key to his achievements, stating, "I believe consistency is the key to success, and that’s what has helped me achieve medals after competing continuously for 12 years. I am still winning medals, and I strongly believe that consistency plays a very important role in our lives." His dedication to training and competition has been a driving force behind his continued success in the sport.
The championship concluded with a grand closing ceremony that celebrated the athletes’ hard work and achievements. Goa's Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, attended the event and praised the competitors for their determination and perseverance. Aalam's impressive performance at the 24th National Para Swimming Championship not only adds to his accolades but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring para-athletes across the country. His journey exemplifies the spirit of resilience and dedication in the face of challenges, making him a true ambassador for para-sports in India.
