Asian Youth Para Games 2025: An Overview
The Asian Youth Para Games 2025 (APYG) took place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from December 7 to 14, 2025. This marked a significant event as it was the second time Dubai hosted the games, having previously welcomed this prestigious gathering in 2017. With a focus on inclusivity and showcasing athletic talent, the games featured young athletes with physical disabilities competing across various sports.
India’s Performance at the Games
India had a noteworthy presence at this year’s games, finishing 7th in the overall medal standings. The Indian contingent secured a total of 102 medals, which included 36 gold, 28 silver, and 38 bronze medals. This impressive haul reflects the hard work and dedication of the athletes who represented the country.
Breakdown of Medals
India’s achievements are particularly remarkable in several sports categories:
- Para Athletics: 28 medals (10 gold, 7 silver, 11 bronze)
- Para Swimming: 19 medals (8 gold, 5 silver, 6 bronze)
- Para Table Tennis: 5 medals (1 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze)
- Para Powerlifting: 3 medals (1 silver, 2 bronze)
- Para Taekwondo: 2 bronze medals
Leading Countries in the Medal Tally
Uzbekistan topped the medal count with an impressive 197 medals, which included 99 gold, 57 silver, and 41 bronze. Following closely behind was Iran, which finished with a total of 262 medals (76 gold, 96 silver, and 88 bronze), and Japan wrapped up the top three positions with 77 medals (40 gold, 25 silver, and 12 bronze).
The Spirit of the Games
The Asian Youth Para Games are designed not just for competition but also to promote engagement and inclusivity within sports. This year’s event saw over 1,500 participants and more than 700 volunteers hailing from 35 countries, enhancing the spirit of camaraderie and support among athletes.
Venue and Organizers
The games were held at eight venues across Dubai, organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Key organizers included the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC), Dubai Sports Council (DSC), and the Dubai Club for People of Determination, showcasing a strong commitment to the development of para-sports.
Sports Categories Featured
The games comprised 11 sports, offering a diverse range of competitions to highlight athletes’ capabilities:
- Para Archery
- Para Athletics
- Para Badminton
- Boccia
- Goalball
- Para Powerlifting
- Para Swimming
- Para Taekwondo
- Para Table Tennis
- Wheelchair Basketball
- Para Arm-wrestling
Mascot and Symbolism
The official mascot for the Asian Youth Para Games 2025 is named “Foxy,” drawing inspiration from the Emirati Desert Fox, a native species. This mascot is not only a representation of the games but also symbolizes resilience, determination, and adaptability—qualities that resonate deeply with the spirit of the participating athletes.
Record-Breaking Performances
The 2025 edition was remarkable in terms of athletic performance, witnessing a total of 25 new records being set, which included 9 world records and 16 Asian records. Such achievements underscore the incredible talent and hard work put in by the athletes.
Looking Back at the Asian Youth Para Games
The Asian Youth Para Games is a premier continental multi-sport event aimed at youth athletes with physical disabilities, organized every four years by the APC. Initially known as the Far East and South Pacific Games for the Disabled (FESPIC) Youth Games, the APYG has been held since 2009. Previous editions took place in Kuala Lumpur (2013), Dubai (2017), and Manama, Bahrain (2021).
In summary, the Asian Youth Para Games 2025 not only celebrated athletic excellence but also highlighted the importance of inclusivity and sportsmanship in a diverse and vibrant setting.
