By Hishan Welmilla
Nagoya, Japan – October 23, 2026, Sri Lanka’s distance-running star Pradeep Somasiri delivered an outstanding performance at the 5th Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, winning the gold medal in the men’s T46 1500m event with a new Games record of 4 minutes 3.25 seconds.
Somasiri’s remarkable achievement marks his second consecutive gold medal in the event at the Asian Para Games, reaffirming his position among Asia’s leading para-athletes in middle-distance running.
The Sri Lankan athlete demonstrated exceptional determination, endurance and tactical strength to claim the top position, improving his own previous Asian Para Games record set in Hangzhou, China, in 2023.
A New Record After Hangzhou Glory
At the 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou in October 2023, Somasiri won the gold medal in the men’s T46 1500m with a time of 4:05.14, setting a new Games record at the time. His latest performance in Nagoya saw him clock 4:03.25, improving his previous record by an impressive 1.89 seconds.
The 2026 victory highlights his continued progress and consistency on the continental stage, as he successfully defended the title he won three years earlier.
Somasiri’s success in Hangzhou was a significant milestone for Sri Lankan para-athletics, and his record-breaking performance in Nagoya has added another memorable chapter to his international career.
International Recognition
Somasiri has also demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest international level. At the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, India, he won the bronze medal in the men’s T46 1500m, recording 3:53.77 and establishing a new Asian record.
His latest Asian Para Games triumph further strengthens Sri Lanka’s presence in international para-athletics and reflects the dedication and perseverance required to excel at major championships.
With back-to-back gold medals in the men’s T46 1500m at the 2023 and 2026 Asian Para Games, Pradeep Somasiri has established himself as one of Sri Lanka’s outstanding para-athletes, delivering another proud moment for the nation.
Results at a glance
2023 Asian Para Games, Hangzhou: Gold medal – 4:05.14 (Games record at the time).
2025 World Para Athletics Championships, New Delhi: Bronze medal – 3:53.77 (Asian record).
2026 Asian Para Games, Aichi-Nagoya: Gold medal – 4:03.25 (new Games record).
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