{
  "id": 7807287,
  "title": "101 medals at 10: A century of swimming glory!",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/16/101-medals-at-10-a-century-of-swimming-glory",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-16T13:37:46.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/gn-focus/company-news/101-medals-at-10-a-century-of-swimming-glory-1.500676968"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A decade of swimming has led 10-year-old Shamoil Sohail Poonawala to a record-breaking 101 medals, including thirty golds, in the UAE competitive swimming scene. This talent is nurtured by discipline, relentless effort, and the unwavering support of his parents. At the recent CBSE UAE Cluster Swimming Meet in Dubai, Shamoil claimed three golds and earned the title of Most Valuable Swimmer - Under 11, securing him a spot at the upcoming CBSE National Swimming Championship in Bhopal, India.\n\nUnder the expert tutelage of Coach Mustafa, Shamoil spends approximately three hours daily at Super Champions Sports Academy, complementing his training with rigorous gym sessions. His swimming skills are also honed within the confines of Springdales School Dubai, where the PE department and swimming coaches refine his techniques, bolster his competitive spirit, and provide ample opportunities to shine at esteemed events like the CBSE Championships.\n\nWhile versatile, Shamoil excels in backstroke, using every race not just as a chance to claim medals but to elevate his timing and technique. His journey has taken him to numerous championships, including the Dubai International Aquatics Championship, Dubai Open Junior Championships, and the AD International Swimming Championship, among others, where he has bagged multiple gold and bronze medals, and podium finishes, including the prestigious title of Most Valuable Swimmer - Under 11 at the recent event.\n\nThis progress was not a result of a singular event but years of consistent effort. Shamoil's routine blends school, swimming, gym training, rest, and a well-regulated diet, reflecting the commitment required to reach such heights. His parents have been instrumental in this journey, managing his demanding schedule, monitoring his nutrition, and ensuring he remains motivated through triumphs and tribulations alike.\n\nThe school's leadership acknowledges Shamoil's potential, with Principal David Jones exclaiming, \"This boy is going places. Bhopal next - and India in his dreams.\" With sights set on further improvement, Shamoil aspires to represent India at national and international swimming championships, with the starting line merely the beginning of his grand journey.",
  "summary": "At an age when most children are still discovering the sports they love, 10-year-old Shamoil Sohail Poonawala already knows exactly where he wants to be - in the pool, chasing the clock With an impressive 101 medals to his name, including more than 30 golds, the young swimmer from Springdales School Dubai is steadily making his mark on the UAE's competitive swimming circuit. Behind that…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}