Double Amputee Indian Swimmer Masudur Rahman Baidya Dies of Heart Attack

Baidya lost both his legs at the age of nine, but his passion for swimming and zeal to achieve something earned him worldwide attention.

Indian double-leg-amputee swimmer Masudur Rahman Baidya (46), who created sensation by crossing the English Channel in 1997, died on April 26 after a heart attack.

The 46-year-old was not keeping well from April 24. “On April 26, he threw up and was shifted to a nursing home. He died within an hour of being admitted. He had a major heart attack and doctors put him on ventilator. Doctors tried their best but he passed away within one hour," said Baidya’s sister Monira Rahman.

Study Reveals Science Behind 'Swimming'
Common principles at work in swimming have been revealed by experts. Researchers showed that a handful of principles govern how virtually every animal propel themselves though water.

Baidya, who had conquered the English Channel, the Strait of Gibraltar in 2001 and the Palk Strait in July 2010, was very popular and Indian cricket Sachin Tendulkar was one among his numerous admirers.

Tendulkar visited him in December 2014 while inaugurating Rabindra Swimming Pool and Anushilan Kendra at Lalkuti in Rajarhat. Acknowledging Baidya’s feats, Tendulkar had said: "They are the real heroes and their life is like an inspiration to all of us.”

Baidya, who hailed from Ballabhpur village in North 24 Parganas district, lost both legs after being run over by a goods train when he was nine. He spent nearly one and a half years in hospital, but did not let disability dictate his life.

Tri-athletes at Higher Risk of Swimming-induced Pulmonary Edema
Endurance athletes participate in triathlons are at danger of acquiring the potentially life-threatening condition of swimming-induced pulmonary edema.

"It is absolutely possible for persons with physical disabilities to do things better than normal people. But you have to be dedicated to your cause. My case study has been featured in books, people can read about me and be inspired, but India only understands cricket, cinema and politics." Baidya had said last year.

Australian Grandfather Celebrates English Channel Swimming Record
A 70-year-old Australian has become the oldest person to swim across the English Channel, celebrating his feat by having a couple of beers for medicinal purposes .

Source-Medindia

Swimming Takes a Back Seat Due To Higher Prices
With higher prices swimming is the most likely activity to take a back seat, replacing it with other forms of physical activity like working out or walking.