12-year-old autistic swimmer creates history

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<strong>12-year-old Jiya Rai, daughter of a Naval sailor Madan Rai, created history by swimming from Bandra-Worli Sea Link to Gateway of India, a distance of 36 Km in eight hours and 40 minutes on Wednesday. </strong></p>
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Jiya is a known case of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and dedicated the swimming feat to raise awareness about autism. She commenced her record-setting feat in the early morning hours yesterday, starting at 0350 hours from Bandra-Worli Sea Link and reaching Gateway of India at 1230 hours.</p>
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The swimming event was conducted under observation of Swimming Association of Maharashtra, a recognised body of Swimming Federation of India. The event was also associated with the FIT India Movement by Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs.<br />
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Jiya was felicitated with a trophy by Zarir N Baliwala, President of Greater Mumbai Amateur Aquatic Association (GMAAA).<br />
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She had earlier swam from Elephanta Island to Gateway of India, distance of 14 Km in 03 hours 27 minutes and 30 seconds on February 15, last year and holds world record for youngest girl with ASD to swim 14 km in open waters.</p>
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