In a remarkable display of endurance and skill, former Dhaka University Swimming Club (Dhaka SUR) member Saiful Islam Rasel once again conquered the Bangla Channel, completing the 16.1-kilometre swim from Shahporir Island’s western beach in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, to St. Martin’s Island in just 3 hours and 15 minutes today, Saturday.
The race, which commenced at 9:30 am from Shahporir Island, featured 35 swimmers, including two women, competing against the formidable currents of the Bay of Bengal. Out of the 37 registered participants, two did not start, while 20 swimmers successfully reached the finish line. Unfortunately, 15 swimmers were unable to complete the channel due to strong tidal flows.
Saiful’s triumph was closely followed by Md. Faisal Ahmed and Md. Taifiquzzaman, who jointly secured second place with a finishing time of 4 hours and 55 minutes, while Hafizur Rahman claimed third place, completing the swim in 5 hours and 5 minutes.
The event, titled “19th Dhaka Bank Bangla Channel Swim 2026,” was organised by Shoroj Adventure under the patronage of the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Shoroj Adventure has been hosting this annual swimming event since 2006, promoting endurance swimming and marine awareness.
Results of the Bangla Channel Swim 2026:
| Position | Swimmer Name | Completion Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Saiful Islam Rasel | 3:15 | 7-time previous winner, including double cross |
| 2nd | Md. Faisal Ahmed | 4:55 | Joint second place |
| 2nd | Md. Taifiquzzaman | 4:55 | Joint second place |
| 3rd | Hafizur Rahman | 5:05 |
The two female swimmers were Ferdousi Akter, a student at a private university in Dhaka, and Sohagi Akter, the first woman to successfully cross the Bangla Channel in previous editions. Both women completed the 16-kilometre course, highlighting the growing role of women in endurance swimming. Sohagi remarked, “Despite strong currents, it was exhilarating to cross the Bangla Channel. Such competitions should encourage more women to participate, raising awareness about water safety and marine conservation.”
Shoroj Adventure CEO Lipton Sarkar emphasised that the competition was conducted under international regulations, with each swimmer accompanied by a rescue boat and multiple guiding boats. The Bangladesh Coast Guard, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and Tourist Police ensured swimmer safety. The event was officially inaugurated by Cox’s Bazar District Sports Officer Alauddin.
Saiful, who had previously completed a double-cross along with six other successful crossings, stated before the race that he aimed to maintain his winning streak. In 2023, he completed the channel in 3 hours and 50 minutes, making this year’s 3 hours and 15 minutes a new personal best and record for the event.
Since its inception on 14 January 2006, the Bangla Channel Swim has become a prominent annual endurance event, inspiring both national and international swimmers while promoting awareness of marine safety.