State lad skates to Guinness glory

Master Rohan’s feat has been recognised as “the fastest distance limbo skating under cars clearing a distance of 38.68 metres”, his coach Suryakant Hindalgekar and Belgaum Roller Skating Academy president Umesh Kalghatgi announced at a press conference here on Saturday.

“He is Belgaum’s pride. Rohan Ajit Kokane is the first Guinness World Record holder in the history of Belgaum,” they said.

Rohan set the record recently at the Juhu Aerodrome in Mumbai.

To honour Rohan, the Academy will organise a procession on April 10 — from Channamma Circle to Shivaji Garden in the city.

Rohan joined the Academy five years ago and has so far created two records, besides winning several awards. His feats have been recognised by the Guinness World Records, the World Record Academy, ‘The India Book of Record,’  ‘The Limca Book of Record’ and ‘The Asia Book of Record.’

Rohan has also participated in several skating rallies to spread the messages on “book donation”, “saving life”, “anti-terrorism”, “AIDS awareness”, “save girl child” and pulse polio. He has bagged medals at various district and invitational national championships.

Hindalgekar and Kalghatgi also released copies of the confirmation of the Guinness World Records claim by Rohan.

The confirmation letter signed by Jennifer Robson of the Guinness World Records says: “We are pleased to confirm that you have set the new Guinness World Record for the ‘farthest distance limbo skating under cars’ and a certificate to commemorate this is included. Although the certificate does not automatically guarantee an entry in our world famous annual book, we do consider all new records for inclusion in all future Guinness World Records publications and products.”

Rohan, who was present at the press meet, said he was very happy with his achievements and thanked all his supporters.