Guwahati, May 23: Assam’s legendary swimmer Elvis Ali Hazarika, honoured with the title Axom Saurabh, is gearing up for one of the world’s most extreme endurance feats — the Antarctica Ice Swimming Challenge — slated for February 2026 or 2027.
Recognized by the International Ice Swimming Association (IISA), this gruelling test requires swimmers to complete at least 1 mile (1.6 km) in water temperatures at or below 5°C (41°F). The rules are strict: no wetsuits, no assistance — just a standard swimsuit, cap, and goggles. The risk of hypothermia and cold shock makes this one of the most dangerous open-water swims on the planet.
To date, only 54 swimmers worldwide have conquered this Antarctic Ice Mile — 36 men and 18 women. If successful, **Hazarika will become the 37th male ever and the first Asian man to complete this chilling challenge.
More than a personal goal, Hazarika sees this as a moment of national pride. In a touching tribute, he announced he would dedicate the swim to cricket legend and Bharat Ratna Sachin Tendulkar, symbolizing his admiration for India’s sporting icons.
Backed by decades of experience as an international and channel swimmer, Hazarika’s preparation reflects not just physical grit but psychological endurance and meticulous acclimatization to extreme conditions.
The announcement was made during a press conference attended by senior journalist Pranay Bordoloi, former Junior India cricketer Abu Nechim Ahmed, and Assam Olympic Association Vice Presidents Rajib Prakash Barua and Bhabadev Goswami — all voicing support for Hazarika’s historic mission.
If completed, this swim will etch Hazarika’s name into global sports history and put India on the map of the world’s most extreme aquatic achievements.
