Tokyo, Japan, August 30, 2021: War hero Dinesh Priyantha Herath won Sri Lanka’s first-ever gold medal in Paralympics with a new world record in the men’s javelin at the Tokyo 2020 Games on Monday, August 30.
The 35-year-old Herath stormed to gold when he threw 67.79 metres in his third attempt in the men’s javelin F46 final at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo.
Herath’s effort broke the previous world record set by India’s Devendra Jhajhariya, who was also the reigning Rio 2016 champion. Jhajhariya had to settle for the silver medal with 64.35 with compatriot Sundar Singh Gurjar winning bronze with 64.01.
“I am very happy because my main dream came true. I have no words to describe the feeling,” said Herath, who kneeled on the track to kiss the Sri Lankan flag after claiming victory.
Herath was serving in the Sri Lankan Army until he was severely injured during a military action against the rebel Tigers. Deep scars from three bullet wounds are evident on his left arm.
“I was in an infantry regiment and I had three gunshots to my arm during the war in Sri Lanka in 2008. After I got injured, I was in hospital for more than four years as they pieced my arm together. Those were the most testing times of my life,” Herath revealed.
Herath didn’t play sports as a schoolboy, or in the Army, but after recovering he took to Para sport in 2014. “Javelin has given me everything, it has helped me get my life back together and this gold is the result of all the hard work that I have put in.”
Back at the 2019 World Championships in Dubai, Herath settled for a silver medal behind Jhajhariya. The duo shares a friendly rivalry and though the competition is fierce while on the field of play, off it the bond is tight.
“We both started together and have great respect for each other. It’s like a journey together and it is great to see the sport grow in Asia. If we can contribute to the development of the sport, then nothing will be like it. Today I put Sri Lanka on the map,” Herath said.
