By Hishan Welmilla
Achi-Nagoya. Sri Lanka’s accomplished para-athlete Palitha Bandara will take to the field this evening for the men’s F42 shot put event at the 5th Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, carrying the hopes of a nation and the experience of years of competing at the highest level.
A proven performer on the international stage, Bandara has built an impressive career through determination, resilience and an unwavering commitment to his sport. His previous successes at the Asian Para Games, Commonwealth Games and international para-athletics competitions provide a strong foundation as he prepares to face Asia’s leading athletes once again.
A Journey Built on Resilience
Bandara’s journey in para-athletics is a story of determination and perseverance. After suffering a serious knee injury in 2013 that ended his volleyball career, he entered para-sports in 2015 and gradually established himself as an international competitor. His progress demonstrates how dedication and the willingness to embrace new challenges can open doors to remarkable achievements.
His first major Asian breakthrough came at the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta, where he won silver in the men’s shot put with a throw of 13.21 metres. That achievement marked his first international victory and established him as a strong competitor in the event.
At the 2023 Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China, Bandara added another medal to his collection, securing bronze in the men’s F63 discus throw. Although competing in a different throwing discipline, the achievement reinforced his reputation as a versatile athlete capable of delivering on a major international stage.
Bandara’s achievements extend beyond the Asian Para Games. At the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, he won silver in the men’s discus throw, recording 44.20 metres. He made history as the first Sri Lankan para-athlete to win a Commonwealth Games medal.
He continued that success at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, where he secured another silver medal in the discus throw with a personal-best distance of 46.84 metres. In February 2025, he also won gold in the F42 shot put at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Dubai, demonstrating his continued strength in the event he will contest in Japan.
As Bandara prepares for this evening’s F42 shot put competition, his previous achievements offer both inspiration and confidence. However, the final outcome will depend on the performances of the competitors on the day, and he will need to produce his best effort against a strong field.
For Sri Lanka, Bandara’s appearance represents more than a medal opportunity. His journey from a career-changing injury to becoming a Commonwealth medallist and Asian Para Games podium finisher is an example of perseverance that can inspire the next generation of para-athletes.
Tonight, as Palitha Bandara steps into the competition arena, Sri Lanka will be cheering him on. With international experience, proven shot-put ability and an impressive record of achievement, he will be aiming to deliver another performance worthy of the national colours.
One athlete. Years of dedication. One more opportunity to make history for Sri Lanka.
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