Karimi makes it to Paralympics for Afghanistan

KABUL (SW): A young double amputee Afghan swimmer Abbas Karimi has qualified for the forthcoming Mexico City 2017 Para Sport Festival (30 September – 6 October).

According to the Afghanistan Swimming Federation, Abbas managed to perform exceptionally in the qualifying rounds in Colorado, U.S. and pave way for himself to join the Paralympics. Syed Ehsanullah, chairman of the ASF has said this is the first time an Afghan athlete has made it to the Paralympics.

Born without both arms, 18-year-old Abbas won the 50-meter qualifying round to ensure his entry in the Mexico City 2017 Para Sport Festival. He has been hailed as a national hero for winning a gold and two silver medals. Abbas Kishtkaar, national swimming coach of Iran, has offered his services to train Abbas for the big event. He has been trained in Hungary for the purpose.

As part of the Central Asian Swimming Federation, the Afghanistan Swimming Federation is a new body following three years of its inception.

ENDS