Bhubaneswar: After setting the record for striking an object with his knees for the maximum number of times in a minute, a medical student from Odisha—Sachin Behera—is now aiming at breaking the world record of Pakistani boxer, Mohammad Rashid.
Known as Bruce Lee of Pakistan, Mohammad Rashid holds the record for the highest number of full-contact knee-strikes using alternate legs with 5kg weight on the ankle in a minute. Sachin will challenge the boxer on January 17 at Jaydev Bhawan in the presence of expert witnesses.
As per the present record, Mohammad has made 100 knee strikes with ankle weight in a minute. Sachin has set a target of 120 strikes in a minute. “I was disheartened to see India losing to Pakistan in the T20 World Cup. Thus, I decided to take up the challenge to make my country proud,” he said.
Sachin, who is also a sprinter, had been practising for the same since the first wave of the pandemic hit the country. As part of his regular practice, he runs 5 km daily starting his day as early as 4.30 am.
In 2019, Sachin had set a record in the Guinness Book of World Records by making at least 137 knee-strikes using both knees in a minute. A native of Larka Village in Nuapada district, Sachin is pursuing a Bachelor in Physiotherapy at Hi-Tech Medical College and Hospital in Bhubaneswar. The 21-year-old claims to be the first person in his district to hold a Guinness World Record.
So, what does it take to make a record? “You need to believe in yourself. Before taking up a challenge, first judge and analyse the existing record. And, obviously, it is important to practice hard. You also need to keep a check on the dietary intake,” he said.
Being a sprinter, knee strikes were a part of his regular practice. “I focused on my knee strike speed under the guidance of Satyapira Pradhan, the Guinness World Record holder for the most number of punches,” he added.
Sachin aspires to become the fastest sprinter in India. He has been focusing on running, skipping and other exercises. He dedicates at least 10 hours every day to practice. “I wish to break the national record. I also have a dream to represent India in the Olympics and other international events,” he added.
Recently, he fetched a gold medal in the 100mts race in the Under-17 category in Chennai at Usain Bolt Championship.
