PHNOM PENH: On the final day of the 2023 Para Games, Cambodian athletes have garnered 70 medals for their host country (nine gold, 18 silver and 43 bronze). The Cambodian delegation has surpassed its previous Para Games performances and displayed grace and sportsmanship as first-time hosts of the international paralympic competition.
The women’s track and field team brought honor to the nation, winning a total of six gold medals, three of which were won by star athlete Vet Chanta in the 200 and 400-meter sprints and the long jump.The Cambodian women’s wheelchair basketball team won the first gold of the Games, defeating their Thai opponents in a 3x3 match on June 3. The team went on to gain a silver medal in the 5x5 tournament.
Power lifter Kong Sela won two of the three Cambodian gold medals in men’s sports and runner Van Vun won two silver medals in the 100 and 200-meter dashes, alongside many other Cambodian track and field stars. Looking back at the 11th ASEAN Para Games held in Solo, Indonesia in 2022, Cambodia proudly secured 28 medals (7 gold, 10 silver, and 11 bronze). This year's achievements demonstrate the continued growth and progress of Cambodian para-athletes, inspiring a nation and setting new benchmarks for future success.
Indonesia has completely dominated the competition this year, winning over a quarter of the total medals in everything from boccia to swimming to sitting volleyball. With only a few more medals to be determined in the badminton finals, Indonesia leads with 401 medals (159 gold, 148 silver and 94 bronze). Thailand is in second with 328 medals (126 gold, 110 silver and 92 bronze) and Vietnam with 201 (66 gold, 58 silver and 77 bronze). While Indonesia and Thailand sent the largest delegation to the Games with 580 and 629 respectively, Vietnam managed to maximize their performance ranking third with only 164 delegates sent.
The 12th ASEAN Para Games ran from June 3-9, giving Cambodia the opportunity to host and experience incredible athletes who not only persevered in the face of great challenges, but showed the world how their unique capabilities can produce sports that are interesting, highly competitive and a tool for education. The closing ceremony will take place this evening at the Morodok Techo National Stadium where Prime Minister Hun Sen will preside over the performances of athletes and artists alike.
