DILI, 08 january 2025 (TATOLI) — A total of 38 Timor-Leste’s paralympians will represent the country at the 2026 ASEAN Para Games, which will take place in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, from january 20 to 26.
The Timorese athletes will compete against paralympians from across Southeast Asia in several sports, including para-athletics, swimming, powerlifting, wheelchair basketball, etc.
The official departure ceremony was held at the conference hall of the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MJDAC) in Dili on January 6 and was presided over by Minister Nelyo Isaac Sarmento.
Speaking at the ceremony, Sarmento said the athletes had completed two months of intensive training at a government-supported training center as part of their preparation for the competition.
The team is scheduled to depart for Thailand on January 15 to continue final preparations ahead of the Games.
Sarmento said that Timor-Leste’s Paralympic team this year is larger, combining experienced athletes with promising new talents.
He expressed confidence that the team would gain valuable experience and deliver strong performances, helping to strengthen the country’s preparation for future international competitions.
“We hope the team can achieve positive results, gain valuable experience, and win medals as part of strengthening their preparation for the Asian Para Games in Japan,” the minister said.
He also urged the athletes to maintain discipline and uphold national pride throughout the competition.
TATOLI
