With around 250 days to go until the 5th Asian Para Games, the Road to Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games Programme was held from 27-30 January 2026.
Five NPCs participated in the initiative, with athletes from Tajikistan, Laos, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan and Nepal taking part in Para athletics and Para table tennis training sessions at Nihon Fukushi University and Mihama Town Athletics Stadium.
The programme also featured lectures, seminars and workshops attended by both coaches and athletes, guided by instructors including Yoko Mizuno of Japan Para Athletics and Nippon Sport Science University, and Yoshihito Miyazaki, High Performance Director of the Japan Para Table Tennis Association, among others.
The opening ceremony was attended by Kazuhiro Yagi, Vice Secretary General of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games Organising Committee (AINAGOC), and Masaki Fujiwara, Executive Director of the Japanese Paralympic Committee (JPC).
Asian Paralympic Committee CEO Tarek Souei delivered a video message during the opening ceremony before attending a seminar session where he shared his expertise with athletes and coaches.
“The energy and commitment seen through this programme reflect the growing excitement. Together, we are not only preparing for the Games, but building confidence, strengthening partnerships, and inspiring the next generation of Asian Para athletes. The Road to Aichi-Nagoya has truly begun.”
Among the distinguished attendees were AINAGOC Deputy Director General Tomohiro Ida; Naoe Yasuoka, Executive Board Member of the Asian Paralympic Committee and Deputy Director of JPC; and Hiroyuki Misaka, Chairperson of the Athletes’ Committee of the Asian Paralympic Committee and Chairperson of JPC.
Mr. Misaka emphasised the wider impact of Para sport:
“This programme has brought meaningful learning and growth to everyone involved. As a former athlete, I understand the challenges you face — but your efforts go far beyond personal achievement. Through Para sport, you inspire courage and awareness in society. This is not the end, but a new beginning. We look forward to seeing you again at the Asian Para Games in October.”
Mr. Ida expressed appreciation to all participants and technical officials:
“Thank you to all athletes and coaches for your dedication throughout this programme. I hope the experience gained here supports your future training and is shared with your teammates back home. My appreciation also goes to the Japanese coaches and staff for their valuable expertise. We wish you a safe journey home and look forward to seeing you again soon.”
Para athletics instructor Ms. Yoko Mizuno reflected on the spirit of the camp:
“It was a privilege to be part of this camp, and I sincerely thank the organising committee for the opportunity. The atmosphere already feels like the Asian Para Games have begun. I encourage athletes and coaches to continue working together with mutual respect and determination. I look forward to meeting you again in Aichi-Nagoya.”
Coaches from participating NPCs also highlighted the impact of the programme. Nepal coach Basanta Bharati noted the strengthened unity and belief within his team, stating:
“We are learning, improving, and moving forward step by step with gratitude and determination. This journey has strengthened our belief that passion and unity will take us closer to our dream.”
Laos coach Chaleunsouk Aoudomphanh underlined the technical benefits gained, particularly in strength and conditioning:
“I will use what I have learned here and apply it in my country for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games. Conditioning is fundamental for improving athlete performance, and I will continue to learn more to aim for medals.”
Over four days, the participating teams experienced informative and engaging training sessions, practical workshops and insightful seminars. They returned home with extensive learning, renewed confidence and stronger preparation as the countdown to Aichi-Nagoya 2026 continues.
As part of the Road to the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Games, more similar programmes will be delivered across Asia in the coming months.
