A strong and resilient Sri Lankan Youth Para Athletic team, led by Viruja Rathnawardena (T20)—who will compete in the 400m event—is set to participate in the 3rd Asian Youth Para Games, taking place in Dubai from December 7 to 14. The team includes eight additional athletes across multiple sports categories:
- 4 Track & Field athletes
- 2 Para Badminton players
- 2 Para Table Tennis players
All athletes were selected through a rigorous, long-term process following the National Youth Athletics Championships and the national Para TT/Badminton selections held earlier this year.
Despite many challenges, the Ministry of Sports approved funding for accommodation, while Dialog Axiata—the long-standing principal sponsor of the National Paralympic Committee—and MAS Holdings, the clothing partner, stepped in with crucial financial and apparel support. However, the team must bear their own air travel costs.
This year’s AYPG will feature participation from over 35 countries at the Dubai Club for People of Determination, with competitions held across 11 para sports, including:
Para Archery, Para Arm Wrestling, Para Athletics, Para Badminton, Boccia, Goalball, Para Powerlifting, Para Swimming, Para Table Tennis, Para Taekwondo, and Wheelchair Basketball. India is expected to field the largest contingent.
The future of Sri Lanka’s Paralympic success depends on these young athletes—the next generation of Paralympians. According to Asian Paralympic President Mr. Majeed Rashid, this group represents “the cream of youth” who will open the path to the Los Angeles Paralympics 2028.
The Sri Lankan contingent includes 16 members, consisting of athletes, coaches, team managers, and a lady chaperone. They are currently undergoing their final phase of intensive training.
The team is scheduled to depart Sri Lanka on December 7 at 18:40 hrs (UL 225) and return on December 14 at 18:20 hrs (UL 232).
The National Paralympic Committee extends its gratitude for the ongoing support shown towards Para Sports in Sri Lanka and requests continued public encouragement as these young athletes strive to bring pride to the nation at the Asian Youth Para Games in Dubai.
