Para Table Tennis Championship: A Showcase of Talent and Inclusivity

Para Table Tennis Championship: A Showcase of Talent and Inclusivity
The 9th Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) Para Table Tennis Ranking Championship recently took place at the Indoor Stadium in Campal, Panjim, defying the monsoon season with a spirited display of competition. Chetan Salgaonkar and Lloyd Fernandes emerged as champions in the Para Standing and Wheelchair categories, respectively.
In the Para Standing category, Chetan Salgaonkar claimed the top spot, while Gopal Naik secured the runner-up position. Meanwhile, Lloyd Fernandes dominated the Wheelchair category, with Vishant Nagvekar finishing as runner-up.
Other notable performances came from Rayansh and other participants also demonstrated impressive skills, showcasing the depth of talent in the competition.
The YMCA’s efforts to promote para sports were evident in this tournament, which marked the second consecutive year of integrating para championships alongside general categories. Alvito D’Silva, a key figure in encouraging participation, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in sports events.
Vishant Nagvekar, a wheelchair category player and coordinator for the para category, urged sports organizers to include para categories in future events. He highlighted the challenges faced by para athletes due to lack of awareness, attitudinal barriers, and infrastructure limitations.
Nagvekar expressed gratitude to the YMCA, Disability Alliance for Inclusive Goa, and Sports Authority of Goa for their support in promoting para sports. The YMCA’s initiatives aim to unlock the full potential of athletes with disabilities, providing opportunities for them to shine on state and national platforms.