Indian Mother of Twins, Tanvi, Swims 32km English Channel in 17.42 Hours at -16°C
Had to Cover an Extra 10 km Due to Weather Changes
Tanvi Chavhan-Deore from Nashik has become the first woman in the country to swim across the English Channel, covering a distance of 32 kilometers. The mother of twin children swam in the Atlantic Ocean for 17 hours and 42 minutes at a temperature of minus 16 degrees Celsius to cross the Channel.
She was supposed to swim from Dover, UK, to Cap Blanc Nez in France, a distance of 32 kilometers. However, due to strong currents and rough waves, she had to change her course and ended up covering an additional 10 kilometers to reach the French coast at Wissant. Due to the change in weather, her three companions had already returned. The waves surrounded Tanvi for three hours, but she maintained her determination.
Completed the Qualifying Round at 11 Degrees in Nainital
To participate in the competition, it is necessary to swim for 6 hours at 15 degrees Celsius. Tanvi completed the qualifying round in Nainital at a temperature of 11 degrees Celsius during winter. Subsequently, she was selected for both relay and individual events. In the relay team, Tanvi was accompanied by two Indians, one American, and one British swimmer. They successfully completed the relay event held between June 13 and 14.
Studied for 8 Hours Daily
Since the age of 7, Tanvi has been training daily for 7 to 8 hours under the guidance of chief coach Srikant Vishwanathan in Bengaluru and retired coach Shankar Malgundi in Nashik to swim in the English Channel. She swam for 11 to 15 hours once a week.
What is the English Channel?
The English Channel is an arm of the Atlantic Ocean that separates England from France. The swimming competition starts in Dover, UK, and ends at Cap Gris Nez in France. Competitors must cover this distance within 24 hours.
