Asia’s fastest Para (differently able) athlete Amila Prasad is shocked about his own self after reaching such a feat to win the gold medal in both the 100 and 200 metres at the recently concluded Asian Para Games in Indonesia.
Amila is attached to the army’s Light Infantry Regiment at the Boosa Camp in Galle and in an exclusive interview said he had no knowledge of sports and joined the army only because his friends persuaded him to do so at a crucial stage during the civil war in the north and east of the country.
“I could not finish my studies (at Madurankuliya Model School in Chilaw) and after finishing Grade Ten I was compelled to join the Army during the war. In effect I wanted to serve my country on the battlefield and not do any sport,” said Amila whose father was a humble fisherman.
Amila’s life completely changed the day he was injured in battle against the LTTE in the north in 2008 which he described as being the most dangerous time in the war as he found himself in hospital with a serious leg injury.
“I had to start a new life as a disabled person. I was in hospital for six months but I gained my strength and self confidence for a new journey,” he recalled.
Amila found himself in the right hands of Colonel Amila Wasage, Major Rajakaruna and Major Iddamalgoda who guided and gave him all the encouragement to start a sporting career.
“To be very honest, I still feel pain in my leg which is now short but when it comes to training on the track there is nothing that can put me off,” he said.
He was the best athlete at the Army Para Games held in Diyagama last year while winning the 100 and 200 metres and the high jump event as he set new records.
“This Asian Para Games was my first international meet and I was lucky to win two gold medals with a new Asian record. I think this is just the beginning for me and I think I have a long way to go,” said a modest Amila.
He is married to a former English teacher Ayanthi Priyadharshani and is the father of three children, Piyumi Natasha 9, Netuki Nethma 7 and three month old Priyashan.
The family lives in a house that is only half constructed but is hopeful that his new found status will open the doors for him to complete the house.
He said he has put his faith in the sports supportive Army Commander Lt. General Mahesh Senanayake and all regiment senior officers especially in the Paralympic Committee.