Palakkad native Abhinav wins swimming competition overcoming autism

Tiruppur: Abhinav Arakkal, an 18-year-old Malayali boy from Tiruppur, has conquered autism through his love for swimming. Recently, he won first place in the 'Special Child Category' at the 'Aqua Fest-2024' competition held by an organisation called 'Tri-2 Champ' in Puducherry, completing a 500-metre marathon swim in the sea.

Abhinav has also shown impressive skills in previous competitions, including the Para Sports State Championship. He is son of Baiju Arakkal, a deputy manager at a garment manufacturing company in Perumanallur, and Anumol, both from Palakkad. He attends the Sai Kirupa Special School in Vallipuram and has a younger brother, Aarav, who is 5 years old.

Abhinav's journey into swimming began when his parents sought ways to manage his hyperactivity linked to autism. Kavin Thirumurukan, the director of his school, suggested swimming as a good outlet. With Abhinav's tall stature and strong build, his parents decided to pursue this option.

Swimming coaches and brothers Sudhish and Shibu, from Palakkad’s Koduvayur, played a vital role in Abhinav's training. Initially, his training took place in swimming pools, but the coaches soon recognised his talent and took him to swim in larger bodies of water, leading him to compete in the sea.

After his success in Puducherry, Abhinav’s father said that they are now preparing for future events, including the 'Special Olympics,' with support from Sai Kirupa School.

Tiruppur: Abhinav Arakkal, an 18-year-old Malayali boy from Tiruppur, has conquered autism through his love for swimming. Recently, he won first place in the 'Special Child Category' at the 'Aqua Fest-2024' competition held by an organisation called 'Tri-2 Champ' in Puducherry, completing a 500-metre marathon swim in the sea.

Abhinav has also shown impressive skills in previous competitions, including the Para Sports State Championship. He is son of Baiju Arakkal, a deputy manager at a garment manufacturing company in Perumanallur, and Anumol, both from Palakkad. He attends the Sai Kirupa Special School in Vallipuram and has a younger brother, Aarav, who is 5 years old.

Abhinav's journey into swimming began when his parents sought ways to manage his hyperactivity linked to autism. Kavin Thirumurukan, the director of his school, suggested swimming as a good outlet. With Abhinav's tall stature and strong build, his parents decided to pursue this option.

Swimming coaches and brothers Sudhish and Shibu, from Palakkad’s Koduvayur, played a vital role in Abhinav's training. Initially, his training took place in swimming pools, but the coaches soon recognised his talent and took him to swim in larger bodies of water, leading him to compete in the sea.

After his success in Puducherry, Abhinav’s father said that they are now preparing for future events, including the 'Special Olympics,' with support from Sai Kirupa School.