16-year-old Lineysha AK sets new national records, wins 2 golds, 1 silver at senior aquatic championship

Somwya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: Promising teenager Lineysha AK from here emerged as the best swimmer in the women's categories at the Senior National Aquatic Championship, which concluded on July 5 in Hyderabad.

The 16-year-old from Karnataka won two gold medals and a silver to be crowned the Best Swimmer in the women's category. Her gold medals came in the 100m and 200m breaststroke events with national record timings.

However, she settled for silver in the 50m breaststroke, losing to Manavi Varma. Lineysha's gold medal in the 100m breaststroke came in a timing of 1:12.67 seconds, which is a new senior national record and the best Indian timing in the event.

She also broke her own national record in the 200m breaststroke, clocking a time of 2:37.35 seconds. When Lineysha spoke with News Trail, she shared her journey that took her to this proud happy moment in life.

What started as a summer camp hobby is now an important part of her life. While she is still learning to manage her Class X academic pressure with her passion, she still puts in at least four hours per day at swimming.

With her impressive performance at the Senior National Aquatic Championship, Lineysha has made a strong case for selection for the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. She is one of the brightest prospects in Indian swimming and is sure to make her mark on the international stage in the years to come.

Talking about her practice sessions and how she has been travelling for the tour naments, Lineysha stated that her school and her teachers have been extremely supportive in providing her with leaves and permissions.

She heartily thanked her parents, coach and her sibling for her success. Although she has not decided how she plans to manage her academics and swimming, she is sure that she will figure out a way to do both efficiently.