Sri Lankan shot put competitor Palitha Bandara, the only domestic Para athlete to win silver medals at consecutive Commonwealth Games, has declared that winning Paralympic gold in 2028 is now his primary ambition.

Palitha Bandara has established himself as one of Sri Lanka's most accomplished Para athletes, becoming the first from the country to secure silver medals at two consecutive Commonwealth Games. He achieved this distinction by winning medals in 2022 and again in 2026, bringing international recognition to Sri Lankan Para sport.

Reflecting on these achievements, Bandara expressed deep satisfaction with his Commonwealth Games success, describing the dual medals as sources of immense pride. However, he emphasizes that his sporting journey remains incomplete. The shot put competitor has now identified the Paralympic Games as his next major target, with 2028 emerging as a critical year for his aspirations. According to Bandara, bringing home a Paralympic medal would represent the final and most significant milestone in his career.

Looking beyond 2028, Bandara has also identified the 2030 Commonwealth Games in India as a future opportunity. He suggested that the Indian climate's similarity to Sri Lanka's conditions could provide him with favorable circumstances to potentially upgrade his silver medals to gold. Before that milestone, however, his focus remains intensely fixed on Paralympic competition.

Bandara has acknowledged the crucial role played by his coach, Prabath Danushka Perera, a former national medalist in throwing events whose guidance has been instrumental throughout his athletic development. The competitor also expressed gratitude to the Sri Lanka Army and National Guard, institutions he represents and credits with transforming him into the athlete he is today. His journey reflects a combination of personal determination and institutional support that has shaped his career trajectory.