KATHMANDU, JULY 12
Nepal's para-taekwondo team is set to compete at a G4-level Asian Championship - an event that carries significant weight on the road to the Los Angeles Paralympics. Led by head coach Kabiraj Negi Lama, the team is aiming high but remains realistic about the challenges ahead.
"We are eyeing medals, but it is challenging," said Lama. "We have a couple of new players in the squad and have been working hard. We are hopeful but don't want to make any commitments at the moment. We will try our best and put in our best efforts."
The tournament is crucial not only for potential medals but also for the athletes' global rankings. "It's an important event for future tournaments. Players can obtain crucial points for the Paralympic qualification," Lama explained.
Among Nepal's top contenders is Palesha Goverdhan, currently ranked No 9 in the world. Goverdhan, who is currently undergoing studies in China, will join the squad directly in Malaysia. Bharat Singh Mahata, who represented Nepal at the Paris Paralympics, is ranked 42, while Amir Bhlon sits at 52. Other players are ranked outside the top 100 but bring valuable experience. Dipesh Mahat, who started alongside Goverdhan, is also expected to feature. "K44 category is included in almost all events, but K41 is rare. This time, we're hopeful Mahat will get his chance," Lama said.
The current team also includes new faces like Renu Tamang and Kamana Prasai. The "Mission 2026" project comprises Bharat Singh Mahata, Dipesh Mahat, Amir Bhlon, Renu Tamang and Kamana Prasai - athletes who are under regular training. "It's not easy, it's challenging, but we're trying to make all the arrangements. The Nepal Taekwondo Association has given full facilities for two other players as well." Ram Chandra Shrestha will join the players as a team manager.
The upcoming championship, slated for July 23 to August 1 in Malaysian city of Kuching, marks another significant step in Nepal's long journey in para-taekwondo, which began in 2013 and has already yielded 21 international medals. With growing support, Nepal hopes to continue its upward trajectory on the global stage.
