Jiya Rai, a 17-year-old para swimmer from Mumbai, has etched her name in history by winning the esteemed World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) Award 2024 in the Adaptive Performance category. This remarkable feat cements her position as a trailblazer in open water swimming and an inspiration to countless individuals worldwide.
A Historic Achievement in Open Water Swimming
On 28th July 2024, Jiya accomplished an extraordinary milestone by successfully swimming across the English Channel. Covering a grueling distance of 34 kilometres in an impressive 17 hours and 25 minutes, she became the youngest female para swimmer in the world to achieve this feat in solo swimming. Her endurance, determination, and relentless spirit have set a new benchmark in the world of adventure sports.
The English Channel, often dubbed the ‘Everest of Swimming,’ has tested the mettle of many seasoned swimmers over the past 150 years. However, Jiya’s accomplishment is even more significant as she is the first girl with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to complete the Channel swim solo. This groundbreaking achievement underscores her perseverance and unwavering resolve to push the boundaries of human endurance.
Recognition on the Global Stage
Jiya Rai’s relentless pursuit of excellence has been acknowledged on the global platform with the WOWSA Award, the highest honour in the realm of open water swimming. Established in 2008, this award celebrates the best open water swimmers, events, and organisations that demonstrate unparalleled dedication and perseverance. The announcement of the 2024 WOWSA Awards took place on 17th February 2025 in San Francisco, California, further solidifying Jiya’s status as a global swimming icon.
This award is a testament to Jiya’s hard work, passion, and determination to excel despite the challenges posed by her condition. She is the first Indian open water swimmer to receive this prestigious accolade, making this victory a moment of immense pride for India.
An Inspirational Journey
Jiya’s journey to success is one of resilience and grit. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at a young age, she faced numerous challenges but never allowed them to define her capabilities. Encouraged and supported by her father, Madan Rai, a Master Chief Petty Officer (MC-at-Arms) in the Indian Navy, Jiya honed her swimming skills with unwavering dedication.
Her exceptional achievements have previously been recognised with several accolades, including the National Award for Disability 2023 and the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2022, the highest civilian honour for individuals below 18 years of age in India. As an international open water para swimmer and world record holder, Jiya has continuously shattered barriers, proving that determination can overcome any obstacle.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Jiya Rai’s triumph serves as an inspiration for young athletes, particularly those with disabilities, to pursue their dreams fearlessly. Her story underscores the importance of perseverance, hard work, and the right support system in achieving success. She has become a role model for aspiring para swimmers and a beacon of hope for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
As she continues to break records and redefine possibilities, Jiya Rai is not just a champion in the water but a symbol of courage, determination, and unyielding spirit. Her victory at the WOWSA Awards 2024 is a proud moment for India and the global swimming community, showcasing that the human spirit knows no bounds when fuelled by passion and resilience.
Jiya Rai’s journey from a young girl with autism to a world-renowned para swimmer is nothing short of extraordinary. Her victory at the WOWSA Awards 2024 marks a new chapter in open water swimming history and reinforces the message that limitations exist only in the mind. As she continues to strive for greater heights, her story will undoubtedly inspire generations to come.
With her indomitable spirit and remarkable achievements, Jiya Rai has proven that she is not just a swimmer – she is a force to be reckoned with, a true champion in every sense of the word.
The Momma Clan 
Leave a comment