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Himanshu Nandal, an emerging talent in Indian para swimming, has initiated a month-long high-performance training camp at Loughborough University in England, renowned for its elite sports training facilities. This camp is a strategic step in his preparation for the Asian Para Games 2026, which is his main focus for the season. Rather than seeking immediate outcomes, the emphasis will be on enhancing technical skills, which are crucial for success in para swimming.

Focus on Technical Finesse

"Technique is paramount at this stage of my career," Nandal stated. "Key elements such as underwater techniques, dive starts, and turns can determine race outcomes. This camp allows me to refine these skills across all four strokes: Butterfly, Backstroke, Breaststroke, and Freestyle."

Training abroad provides Nandal with a consistent high-performance environment, which is challenging to maintain in Delhi due to adverse weather and pollution. "Consistency is vital for top performance. The UK environment enables me to train regularly and maintain mental focus," he remarked.

Reuniting with a Winning Formula

At Loughborough, Nandal will reunite with coach Andrew Wallace, with whom he previously trained during a successful period in mid-2025. Their collaboration continued remotely during the World Para Swimming Championships, where Nandal achieved significant success by reaching two international finals. "That training phase was highly effective, so returning to this system feels like a natural step forward," he explained.

Strategic Start to the Season

With nearly 40 weeks until the Asian Para Games, the timing of this training camp is intentional. "We are at the beginning of the season. Establishing consistency and correcting posture now will yield benefits throughout the year. While these adjustments may not show immediate results in personal bests, they will contribute to long-term performance improvements," Nandal noted.

A Meteoric Rise in Para Swimming

Nandal, who has been blind since birth due to optic nerve failure, began competitive para swimming in 2021 and has since made remarkable strides in Indian para swimming. Born on May 25, 2004, in Rohtak, Haryana, he is a multiple national champion and record holder in the paraolympic S11 category. He is also the first Indian blind swimmer to achieve the Minimum Qualification Standard for the Paris 2024 Paralympics and has represented India at the Asian Para Games, along with being a two-time finalist at the World Para Swimming Championships.

Inspiring the Next Generation

"Para swimming has made me feel equal, not different," Nandal shared. "India is evolving as a sporting nation, but para swimming requires more visibility. International training not only enhances performance but also allows us to bring back knowledge that can inspire and guide young para swimmers in India."

He expressed gratitude to the GoSports Foundation for their support during this training opportunity.