Colombo, Jan 29, 4.30PM – Naveed Raheem’s journey in Sri Lankan swimming is nothing short of remarkable. Despite facing challenges from birth, including being a below-knee amputee, Raheem has defied odds and emerged as a beacon of inspiration for the nation. His recent achievements, including a bronze medal at the 2023 Para Asian Games in China, have ignited hopes of representing Sri Lanka in the Paralympic and bringing home glory.
Raheem, a 19-year-old swimmer from DS Senanayake College who trains at Killer Whale Aquatics, amazed everyone with his incredible achievement. Just two months before the last Asian Para Games, he managed to slash 10 seconds off his timing. In his favorite event, the Men’s 400m Freestyle (S9), his time improved from 4:48.00 seconds to an impressive 4:39.63 seconds, earning him a valuable medal in China. Notably, his win broke a 13-year dry spell in Para Asian Games swimming medals for Sri Lanka, making his victory even more special.
His coach, Manoj Abeysinghe, praised Raheem’s dedication and work ethic during The Annual Golden Goggle Awards presented by KWA. “As a para athlete, Naveed doesn’t get any special treatment in the pool. He does the same workout everyone else does. I’ve never heard him complain. He always gives his best,” Abeysinghe remarked.
Reflecting on Raheem’s journey, Abeysinghe recalled the daunting task they faced before the Asian Para Games. “When Naveed came to Killer Whale Aquatics, he had less than two months to prepare. He needed to drop about 8-10 seconds to win a medal,” Abeysinghe shared. Despite the challenges, Raheem’s determination and hard work paid off, propelling him to success.
As Raheem sets his sights on the Olympics, he remains grateful to his coaches, including KWA founder Manoj Abeysinghe, Double Olympian Matthew Abeysinghe, and National Champion Kyle Abeysinghe. He also acknowledges the unwavering support of the National Paralympic Committee.
Before Naveed Raheem became part of KWA, he already made a splash in the swimming world. In 2021, at the Asian Youth Para Games in Bahrain, he not only clinched a bronze medal but also led the Sri Lankan Para team as its captain. Raheem’s journey is marked by his determination and spirit, despite facing challenges from birth. “Actually, I am a below knee amputee right leg from birth, I have been some deformities going during the birth,” Raheem shared, highlighting the hurdles he has overcome. His ultimate goal? “I want to win a medal for Paralympic for Sri Lanka.” Raheem’s dedication and aspirations reflect his commitment to achieving greatness in para swimming.
