My goal is 2020 Paralympics medal: Dinesh Priyantha

Dinesh with his coach Pradeep Nishantha

By Hishan Welmilla in Dubai

Sri Lanka’s Paralympics bronze medalist Dinesh Priyantha Herath hopes to take the Gold medal at the Tokyo 20202 Paralympics Games in his pet event, the Men’s F46 Javelin Throw.

Dinesh narrowly missed the Gold medal at the World Para Athletics Championship currently underway in Dubai and had to be satisfied with the Silver. 

“It is a disappointment to lose the Gold medal, but my hope is to take the Gold Medal at the Paralympics Games 2020 to in Tokyo. I am sure and confident that I could take the gold,” said

Dinesh after the event.

India’s Sundar Singh surpassed Dinesh’s attempt in his final attempt by finding a distance of 61.22m to take the Gold and leave the Sri Lankan in his wake.

Dinesh, who had the bronze at the last Rio Paralympics in 2016 and who has recorded a distance of 61.84m before the start of the event, was the favourite to win the Gold medal. Dinesh took the lead among 13 competitors from his first attempt by throwing a distance of 60.59m. India’s Ajeet Singh gave him a good fight by throwing a distance of 59.46m followed by compatriot 2017 winner Singh with 58.05m.

But Singh surpassed everyone with his last attempt to take his first Gold medal at a World Athletic Championship.

“I was leading till the last moment but Sundar Singh’s last attempt put me down to the Silver medal. I was carrying an injury over the last few months but my determination gave me the courage to take part in the World Para Athletics Championship. Even though I lost the Gold, I am happy that I could make my country proud,” Dinesh added.

“I must also thank my coach Pradeep Nishantha who has given me all the technique and courage throughout to help me reach greater heights. In addition, my gratitude goes to the National 

Paralympic Committee for their support. Further I must thank our sponsors who have helped the Sri

Lankan contingent take part in this year’s World Para Athletics Championship in Dubai, especially Dialog Axiata, Sri Lankan Airlines and the Ministry of Sports.”