Added a new International record
Bangladesh Navy swimmer Samiul Islam Rafi has produced an impressive performance at the 2026 Thailand Age Group Swimming Championships (25m), winning two gold medals and a bronze in the Open/Senior Group.
Rafi clinched gold in the 50m backstroke with a time of 24.33 seconds, setting a new championship record in the event.
His performance in the 50m backstroke was particularly notable as his 24.33-second timing was faster than the 24.40-second South Asian Games record, underlining the quality of his performance on the international stage.
Rafi continued his winning run in the 100m backstroke, securing another gold medal with a time of 54.66 seconds.
He also added a bronze medal in the 50m butterfly, clocking 24.43 seconds.
Rafi's strong showing has brought further recognition to Bangladesh's swimming fraternity and marks a significant achievement for the Bangladesh Navy.
The swimmer's success has come with the support of the Bangladesh Swimming Federation and the overall assistance of the Bangladesh Navy.
His performances are being viewed as a source of pride for the Bangladesh Navy, the Bangladesh Swimming Federation and the country, while the record-breaking 50m backstroke performance provides an encouraging indication of Bangladesh's growing competitiveness in regional swimming.
Rafi's medal-winning performances at the Thailand meet are also expected to strengthen his credentials as one of Bangladesh's promising swimmers on the international circuit.
| Event | Category / Group | Result / Time | Medal | Record / Notes |
| 50m Backstroke | Open / Senior | 24.33 seconds | Gold | Championship Record; faster than SA Games record (24.40s) |
| 100m Backstroke | Open / Senior | 54.66 seconds | Gold | — |
| 50m Butterfly | Open / Senior | 24.43 seconds | Bronze | — |
