Sion girl sets new record

While her classmates from MD College, Parel are anxiously awaiting their class XII results, 18-year old Bhagyashree Sawant, is climbing her way up to the highest summit at Mount Everest. She has successfully crossed base camp 1 and 2 and is now on her way to the final summit.

According to her mother, Malini Sawant, when Bhagyashree heard of the record set by fellow Maharashtrian, 19-year old Krushnaa Patil, she started dreaming of beating it. If the teenager succeeds in her attempt, she will become the youngest Indian woman to achieve the feat.

"She had to abandon her class 12 board exams to pursue her dream," said Malini. Malini further explained that the teenager has always been an over achiever. "She is a national cycle champion and a rugby player. She took training from Asian Trekking, the Kathmandu-based climbing agency that is handling the logistics of the expedition," said the mother. Bhagyashree left for base camp during March and is a part of the 12-member team who will soon reach summit.

"Even though she was so far away, she did not forget to wish me on my birthday. She was at Base Camp 2 and I could see her through the webcam. We are waiting to celebrate her success," said Malini.