Slambook: Akash Mani
Akash Mani of Basavanagudi Aquatic Centre fills out the SwimmingDrive Slambook — on his 56.15 in the 100m backstroke at the 2024 Senior Nationals, Michael Phelps as his inspiration, biryani after every session, and why swimming is passion, not work.
56.15
100m Backstroke
4 yrs
Age Started
Sub-49
Goal — 100m Free
BAC
Basavanagudi AC
🏊 In the Water
Best Swim Meet Memory
“Can’t pick one.”
When every meet matters, none stands alone.
Most Memorable PB
56.15
100m Backstroke — 2024 Senior Nationals
Hardest Set Conquered
40 × 100s on 1:15
Four thousand metres of hurt.
Favourite Pool
🏗️ Mangalore BAC Pool
Dream Competition
🥇 Olympics
Short-Term Goal
Sub-49 in the 100m Freestyle
Secret Event to Try
🦋 200m IM
The butterfly will have to wait.
🧠 The Mind
Swimming Inspiration
Michael Phelps
The greatest. Full stop.
Pre-Race Ritual
Dry fruits. Always.
Plus 45 minutes of dry land before warmup starts.
Pump-Up Song
🎵 Mask Off
Future
Superstition
“Can’t pick one.” 😂
😄 Off the Blocks
Post-Session Indulgence
🍛 Biryani
Every single time.
Favourite Gear
TYR Venzo
The suit that means business.
Hobbies Outside Swimming
🎮 Gaming | 📺 Binge watching
Early Morning Practice
It depends on the day 😅
If Not a Swimmer?
⚽ Football
Non-Swimming Thing That Helps
🎵 Music
Most Embarrassing Swim Moment
“Swimming butterfly.” 😅
The stroke that humbles everyone eventually.
❤️ Heart of the Sport
One Thing Non-Swimmers Should Know
Have fun swimming — time flies by fast.
What Swimming Taught Him That School Never Could
To take life slow.
Best Advice for Beginners
Enjoy it.
To a younger Akash
“Don’t worry about the result, enjoy the process.”
— Akash Mani | Basavanagudi Aquatic Centre, Bengaluru
Share this story
