Tag: para table tennis

Sports

Lloyd Fernandes from Goa Selected for ITTF Asian Para Championships 2025 in Beijing

Tanisha Cardozo

Lloyd Fernandes, a para table tennis athlete from Taleigao, Goa, has been selected to represent India at the upcoming ITTF Asian Para Championships 2025, to be held in Beijing from October 13 to 19. Currently ranked No. 1 in India in the Class 2 para table tennis category, Lloyd has proudly represented India twice this year at prestigious international events.

He competed at the ITTF World Para Challenger in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei, on July 2, 2025, and at the ITTF Al-Watani Para Championships 2023 in Amman, Jordan. Lloyd has also earned several national accolades, including gold medals at the Para Table Tennis National Championships and Ranking Championships held in Baroda (March 2025), Indore (March 2024), Ahmedabad (July 2023), and the Khelo India Para Games in Delhi (December 2023). His earlier achievements include silver medals at the National Para Table Tennis Championships in Indore in 2022 and 2023, and a bronze medal at the Purple Fest All India Para TT Open Championship held in Goa in January 2023.

Coached by Selwyn Godinho and supported steadfastly by his wife Stephanie da Costa, Lloyd’s commitment and achievements continue to inspire many across India. The Disability Rights Association of Goa has congratulated him on his selection and urged the Honorable Chief Minister to expedite his pending Group A government post application under the Sports Category, which has been awaiting approval for two months.

Lloyd Fernandes’ journey is a testament to perseverance, talent, and dedication, marking a significant milestone for para sports in Goa and India. His participation in the Asian Para Championships is expected to boost the visibility and support for para athletes nationwide.

Sports

Goa’s Lloyd Fernandes Selected for ITTF Asian Para Championship After Double Gold Victory

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

For many, an accident might seem like the end of life. But for some, it becomes the beginning of a powerful new chapter. Lloyd Fernandes from Goa is one such person who turned tragedy into triumph. In 2016, Lloyd’s life changed forever after a devastating accident left him paralyzed. While most would struggle to cope, Lloyd found strength in an unexpected place—table tennis.

Determined not to let his condition define him, Lloyd picked up the sport after the accident. It started as a form of therapy and evolved into a full-fledged passion. With every swing of the paddle, he built confidence, strength, and purpose. He trained rigorously, competed fiercely, and steadily carved a name for himself in the world of Para Table Tennis.

His hard work paid off in March 2025 when he clinched two consecutive gold medals—first at the Para Table Tennis National Ranking Championship held from March 17–19, and then again at the Para Senior Table Tennis National Championship from March 21–23. Both prestigious events were hosted at the Sama Indoor Sports Complex in Vadodara, Gujarat.

Lloyd’s exceptional performance has now earned him a coveted spot in the ITTF Asian Para Championship, a major international tournament that gathers the best para-athletes from across the continent. His selection is not just a personal achievement, but also a proud moment for Goa and India.

Lloyd Fernandes’s journey from paralysis to the international stage is more than just a story of sports. It’s a powerful reminder that resilience, determination, and passion can overcome any obstacle. As he prepares to represent India at the ITTF Asian Para Championship, he carries with him the hopes of many and the undeniable spirit of a true champion.

Sports

Goa’s Para Athletes Shine at 9th YMCA Para Table Tennis Ranking Tournament

Tanisha Cardozo

Campal, Goa | August 2025: Goa’s para athletes once again proved their mettle at the 9th YMCA Para Table Tennis Ranking Tournament, held at the iconic Campal Indoor Stadium, with remarkable performances in both standing and wheelchair categories.

This tournament, organized by YMCA, is a celebrated platform for para athletes across the region, reflecting the organization’s ongoing commitment to inclusive and accessible sports.

🏅 Winners:

Standing Category

  • Chetan Salgaonkar
  • Gopal Naik

Wheelchair Category

  • Lloyd Fernandes
  • Vishant Nagvekar

Each athlete displayed exceptional talent, resilience, and sportsmanship, capturing not only medals but also the hearts of spectators and fellow competitors.

The YMCA’s dedication to creating sporting opportunities for differently-abled athletes has played a crucial role in fostering inclusivity in Goa’s sporting ecosystem. These tournaments not only promote competition but also inspire younger para athletes to dream big and pursue sports professionally.

As Goa celebrates this proud moment, it also renews its commitment to support and uplift para athletes with better facilities, training, and visibility.

Congratulations to all the winners and participants – you make Goa proud!