By Hishan Welmila
Sri Lanka concluded its campaign at the 5th Asian Para Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, finishing 16th in the overall medal standings with two gold, four silver and three bronze medals. The nine-medal achievement highlighted the country’s continued potential in para-sports, with record-breaking performances and encouraging individual displays providing a foundation for future development.
Distance runner Pradeep Somasiri and athlete Janani Dhananjana emerged as the standout performers for Sri Lanka. Somasiri successfully defended his men’s T46 1,500m title in a Games-record time of 4:03.25, demonstrating his endurance, tactical awareness and ability to deliver under pressure. Dhananjana won gold in the women’s T47 long jump with a Games-record leap of 5.52m and silver in the 200m, confirming her versatility and status as one of Sri Lanka’s leading para-athletes.
Nuwan Indika Gamage secured silver in the men’s T44 100m with a season-best 11.58 seconds, while Palitha Bandara claimed silver in the shot put. Galina Basnayake added silver in the women’s S9 400m freestyle. Bronze medals came from swimmer Naveed Raheem, long jumper Mohamed Safran and 400m runner Maduranga Subasinghe, reflecting contributions from both athletics and swimming.
However, the campaign also brought disappointment. Team captain Samitha Dulan finished fourth in the men’s F44 javelin throw despite his international pedigree, while Dhananjana narrowly missed a medal in the women’s T47 100m before returning to the podium in two other events. These results demonstrate the competitive margins at elite level and the importance of consistent preparation.
Chef de Mission Brigadier (Retired) Dhananjaya Aludeniya highlighted the commitment of the contingent and the need to build on its achievements.
“Our athletes demonstrated remarkable determination, discipline and courage while competing against Asia’s best. Their achievements make us proud, but we must look beyond the medals and recognise the dedication behind every performance. We need to strengthen our support systems, improve preparation opportunities and ensure our athletes receive the resources necessary to reach their full potential,” he said.
Athletics Head of the Contingent Lieutenant Colonel Deepal Herath emphasised the importance of long-term development and identifying future champions.
“Sri Lanka has athletes with considerable potential, and several performances in Nagoya showed that we can compete successfully at the highest level. However, talent alone is not enough. We need scientific training, specialist coaching, regular international exposure and a stronger program to identify young athletes who can represent the country in future competitions,” he said.
Sri Lanka’s performance compares with 11 medals and 18th place at Hangzhou in 2023, and 14 medals and 14th place at Jakarta in 2018. Although the medal tally declined from 2023, the improved overall ranking and two Games records provide reasons for optimism.
Moving forward, investment in sports science, strength and conditioning, rehabilitation, accessible facilities and international competition must become a priority. Equally important is identifying new talent through schools, provincial sports programs, rehabilitation centres and disability organisations. Structured development pathways and opportunities for young athletes to progress into elite competition will be essential.
Sri Lanka’s Nagoya campaign offers both an achievement and a challenge. Sustained investment, stronger coaching structures and a wider talent pool can help convert promising performances into consistent international success and improve the country’s position at future Asian Para Games.
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