Patna: Sheikh Mohammad Shams Alam, an international para-swimmer from Rathaus village in Bisphi block of Madhubani district, has been selected for the 2026 Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
The Games are scheduled to take place from October 18 to 24. This will be Alam’s third consecutive Asian Para Games appearance, following his participation in Jakarta in 2018 and Hangzhou in 2022.
Record-Breaking Performance In Sweden
Alam secured his selection after a strong showing at the Para Swim Open International Championship in Falkenberg, Sweden, on May 9.
He won a bronze medal in the 100m breaststroke in the SB-4 category, clocking 2 minutes 17.80 seconds. The performance also saw him break the national record in the event.
His result moved him to fourth place in the International Paralympic Committee’s world rankings, according to the details provided about his international performance.
From Karate To Para-Swimming
Alam was previously an international karate player. At the age of 24, he became paralysed below the waist following a tumour in his lower back.
He began swimming in 2012 as part of his rehabilitation. He subsequently developed a career in para-swimming and has represented India at international competitions.
Limca Book World Record
Alam also holds a Limca Book of Records entry for swimming 8km in the open sea off Goa. He completed the distance in 4 hours and 4 minutes.
His sporting journey has taken him from Madhubani to national and international competitions, while he has also pursued academic and professional careers.
Goal Of 2028 Paralympics
Born on July 17, 1986, Alam is a mechanical engineer and holds an MBA in Human Resources. He is employed with the Finance Department of the Bihar government.
His immediate target is to win a medal at the Asian Para Games in Japan. He also aims to qualify for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
