At just 18, Indian para-swimmer Jiya Rai scripted history on Friday by becoming the first female para-swimmer to complete the prestigious Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming.

Rai achieved the remarkable feat after completing the gruelling 48-kilometre 20 Bridges Swim around Manhattan in New York on August 30. She finished the mammoth swim in 8 hours and 53 minutes, adding another extraordinary milestone to her growing list of achievements. Her feat is even more significant as she became the first para-swimmer with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to complete the Triple Crown in the event's nearly century-long history.

A gruelling triple crown

The Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming comprises three of the world's most challenging open-water swims;  the English Channel, the Catalina Channel and the 20 Bridges Swim around Manhattan. Rai completed the English Channel in 2024 before conquering the Catalina Channel and, finally, the Manhattan swim to complete the coveted trio.

The 20 Bridges Swim is widely regarded as one of the toughest open-water challenges. Swimmers must contend with powerful currents, unpredictable weather conditions and cold water while remaining in the water throughout the gruelling course.

Rai, however, overcame the demanding conditions with remarkable composure and endurance to etch her name in the record books. She dedicated her historic achievement to raising awareness about autism, using her sporting success to send a message of determination and inclusion.

Who is Jiya Rai?

Jiya Rai is the daughter of Indian Navy officer Madan Rai. Besides conquering the Manhattan swim, she has completed several other challenging open-water swims, including the Palk Strait.

Her historic achievement was recognised in New York, where Vishal Jayeshbhai Harsh, Deputy Consul General of India, honoured the young para-swimmer for her remarkable accomplishment.

Rai has already amassed an impressive collection of accolades. Her honours include the WOWSA Award, the National Award for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar.

At only 18, Rai has emerged as an inspiration for people with disabilities, demonstrating how perseverance, discipline and hard work can help overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Her latest feat is not merely another sporting record. It is a powerful reminder that barriers can be challenged and broken, when determination meets extraordinary courage.