In a feat that has brought immense pride to Assam and India, Elvis Ali Hazarika has become the first Assamese swimmer to conquer the English Channel in relay mode, completing the 21-mile journey in a grueling 13 hours. This triumph marks the 14th ocean crossing in Hazarika’s illustrious career, further solidifying his status as a pioneer in Indian open-water swimming.
Starting at 1:30 am on Monday, the swim pushed Hazarika to his physical and mental limits. “It was a battle against the waves and exhaustion, but our team’s spirit and my love for Assam kept me going,” Hazarika shared, his voice filled with emotion. “This is for my people. Joi Aai Axom.”
Hazarika’s journey is a testament to his relentless determination. In 2023, he etched his name in history as the first Northeast Indian to swim the English Channel both ways in relay mode, covering 78 km from Hampshire, England, to Calais, France, in 31 hours. In 2022, alongside Rimo Saha from West Bengal, he became part of the first Indian and Asian relay team to brave Europe’s North Channel, a first for both their states. His 2019 crossing of the Catalina Channel in the United States marked him as the first Assamese to achieve that feat. Most recently, in December 2023, he navigated treacherous waters for a solo swim from Mumbai’s Elephant Island Jetty to the Gateway of India.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma celebrated Hazarika’s achievement, calling it a “glorious moment for Assam and the nation.” The Chief Minister’s Office posted on X, “Elvis Ali Hazarika’s 13-hour English Channel swim is his 14th ocean conquest, a shining example of courage and perseverance.”
Hazarika’s victories are more than personal milestones; they are an inspiration for Northeast India’s aspiring athletes, proving that dedication can break barriers and make history.
