Andhra Woman, 52, achieves historic 150-km swim from Visakhapatnam to Kakinada

In a testament to grit and determination, 52-year-old Goli Shyamala has made history by completing a grueling 150-kilometre swim in the open sea, traveling from Visakhapatnam to Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh.

Shyamala, an endurance swimmer from Samarlkota village in the Kakinada district, took on this ambitious challenge on December 28. Supported by the Coromandel Odyssee Ocean Swimming organization, she braved the relentless waves and covered an average of 30 kilometres daily over five days. Her journey concluded triumphantly on the shores of Suryaraopeta in Kakinada, where crowds gathered to celebrate her remarkable achievement.

Shyamala was welcomed with jubilant applause from local residents and dignitaries, including Peddapuram MLA Chinarajappa and Kakinada Municipal Commissioner Bhavana Vasista. Her accomplishment is not only a personal milestone but also a source of inspiration for people of all ages, proving that age is no barrier to extraordinary achievements.

This latest feat adds to her impressive list of accomplishments. In 2021, she successfully swam across the Palk Strait, and earlier this year, she became the first Asian swimmer to conquer the waters surrounding the Lakshadweep Islands.

Shyamala’s swim was supported by a dedicated team of 14, including medical personnel and scuba divers, ensuring her safety throughout the journey. She shared heartwarming encounters with dolphins along the way but also faced challenges, including jellyfish stings.