Dinesh Priyantha Sri Lanka’s flag-bearer for Tokyo Paralympics

On Aug 6, 2021

Javelin thrower Dinesh Priyantha Herath, who won a Bronze Medal at the 2016 Rio Paralympics Games, will lead the nine-member Sri Lankan Team for the Tokyo Paralympics Games.

He will be Sri Lanka’s flag-bearer at the opening ceremony of the event, which will be held from August 24 to September 5.

Herath will compete in the F-46 javelin throw event and is expected to convert his Rio de Janeiro Games Bronze Medal to a Gold Medal this time.

“With more confidence, dedication and good preparation, I am sure these para athletes will have more chances to win medals,” Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa said.“Today, the National Sports Council have launched a long-term plan for para athletes in the country and para sports have been identified as a medal winning sport at international level.”

“Your responsibility is to win and pave the way for the next generation to move forward with more determination,” the Minister urged the para athletes.

“This Tokyo Games is your best competition and you should get your best achievement on this occasion. These para athletes should at least record their personal best and bring honour to the country.”

A total of nine competitors will represent Sri Lanka at the Tokyo Paralympics.

Herath and Samitha Dulan, both from the javelin throw event, received direct qualifications while the only Women’s competitor Kumudu Priyanka qualified through a Universality place.

In addition, Mahesh Jayakody will compete in para rowing and Sampath Bandara will compete in para archery.

Ranjan Dharmasena will compete in the wheelchair Tennis Tournament. The other athletes are Sampath Hettiarachchi (F-64 javelin throw), Palitha Bandara (F-42 shot put) and Maduranga Subasinghe (T-47 400m).