Saachi Baat Special
Avinash Sarang, 80, a true legend of Indian aquatics, passed away in Mumbai on Tuesday, leaving behind rich memories. Even as news of ‘Avi’ departing came in, people remembered him and offered prayers and offered condolences. From competing in prestigious water polo tournaments to conquering the gruelling English Channel, Avinash Sarang had become a true legend. After all, anyone who knows a thing or two about the conditions to conquer in the English Channel will vouch, it tests human endurance, skill and immense will power. Many have failed in attempts to do it from India, even in recent years, plus it involves a lot of money.
Late Avinash Sarang was one of the stalwarts of the Central Railway water polo team which won the prestigious Inter Railway Tournament for the first time in 1967. Old timers recall how he and Captain Clement Mendonca, Bharat Merchant, Prakash Purandare, V T Harmalkar, Hatode and Jimmy Motiwalla competed brilliantly to dethrone Kolkata giants Eastern & South Eastern Railways, 57 years ago.
Uniquely, Avinash Sarang was a national champion in swimming, water polo and later open water swimming in his hey days. When Avinash conquered the English Channel on his first attempt, the weather was beastly. It tested him to the hilt and he emerged triumphant on August 28, 1974. Sadly, he passed away just two days before what would have been the 50th anniversary.
At a time when Indian swimming has hit abysmal standards and swimmers struggle to win a medal at even the Asian Games, leave alone doing well in Olympic qualification, what Avinash Sarang had achieved needs to be celebrated. He was good in the 100 metres butterfly as well as the middle-distance events. In recognition of his efforts, he won the prestigious Arjuna Award. In addition to swimming, he had also given back to the sport as a coach. The Indian swimming fraternity is in mourning and remembers the feats of Avinash Sarang fondly.
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