Mumbai to Goa, for a cause!

Kaustubh Khade, an IITian and sea-farer, today undertook a unique challenge of navigating the Arabian Sea from Mumbai to Goa, to raise funds for Magic Bus India. Magic Bus is a non-profit organisation working with underprivileged children and youth to help them break out of poverty to a life of opportunities. The 20-day solo-kayaking trip will see him paddling a distance of 500 kms in the shortest possible time to make it to the Limca Book of Records.

Sharing the belief with Magic Bus that sports have the capacity and power to change the world, Kaustubh has dedicated this daring expedition to raising funds for Magic Bus’ programme.

Matthew Spacie, MBE, Founder and Executive Chairman said, “We, at Magic Bus, are extremely delighted to have Kaustubh take this challenge in support of the lakhs of children whose lives we are part of. Together, we are hopeful of creating a new generation of economically- independent and socially-aware citizens who are fully equipped to participate in shaping their country’s future.”

“We thank Kaustubh for being a crucial part of our mission and wish him all the best from Magic Bus team!”

Speaking on this exciting endeavour, Kaustubh Khade said, “I’ve always wanted to work with Magic Bus, ever since I learnt that they used sports to change lives. I think engaging with anyone, child or adult, over the long term, as Magic Bus does, helps cross over many boundaries that are otherwise difficult to surmount.”

Trained under twelve-time world Champion for Surfski Kayaking, Oscar Chalupsky, Kaustubh’s first major tournament was the 2012 National Championship for Dragon Boat Racing held in Mumbai. Over the three day Championship, Kaustubh has won two silver and one bronze medal in the races he participated in.

Among others, Kaustubh has also represented India at the Asian Sea Kayaking championship held in Krabi, Thailand. In the 13 Km sea kayak race, he finished in the Top 5 out of the 17 participants and clocked a new personal record for the distance.

We welcome your comments at letters@friedeye.com