Sachin Chamaria opens up on Asian Para Games experience and India’s tough road to LA 2028 Paralympics | EXCLUSIVE

Indian boccia player Sachin Chamaria represented India in the BC3 individual and pairs events at the 2026 Asian Para Games. In an exclusive interaction with Zee News Digital, he spoke about his experience competing against Asia's best and India's chances of qualifying for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics.

Sachin Chamaria on Asian Para games experience

Speaking about representing India, Chamaria said, "Personally, participating in such a prestigious event for anyone is a matter of pride. Because out of so many people who compete for this sport, through your efforts and your dedication and your hard work, you are selected. So, it gives you an immense sense of pride, and many people cry for finding this opportunity because you get to represent your country at such a global stage."

Reflecting on the competition, he said, "The players with whom I competed, they already have Paralympic medals, Asian medals under their belt only. So, they have a rich and vast experience."

"Unless and until you don't play with strong players, you will not improve as an athlete," he added.

Acknowledging the difference in skill levels, Chamaria said, "Obviously, there was a huge skill difference between my skill and between their skill. Obviously, I tried my best, but unfortunately, my best was not enough. So, that means I still have a long way to go. I still have a lot to learn and I need to improve a lot."

Chamaria began his Asian Para Games 2026 campaign with an 8-4 victory over the UAE's Khalifa Ahmad. However, he could not maintain that momentum and subsequently lost to Japan's Kazuki Takahashi in a pool-stage match.

Sachin Chamaria on India’s LA 2028 Paralympics qualification

India are yet to make their Paralympic debut in boccia. Speaking about the qualification challenge, Chamaria said, "Talking from an athlete point of view and being optimistic, the chances are there, but it's not going to be a walk in the park. I'll be very blunt and honest about it. It's a very tough task."

Explaining the target for 2027, he said, "In pairs, you have a ranking of India, not of the individual pairs. So, whichever athlete goes, in the next year, we have to at least finish podium position in three tournaments minimum to improve our ranking."

He also outlined the upcoming qualification opportunities, saying, "In 2028, you have two qualifying tournaments. One is in Zagreb, in Croatia, and one is in Astana, Kazakhstan."

Chamaria added, "In September or October, in Beijing, in 2027, you have the regional championship. If you get a podium position in the regional championship, you will automatically qualify in pairs event for the Paralympics 2028."

Chamaria aims for more International exposure

Speaking about his preparations, Chamaria said, "Before that, I will at least play. I will try to play another two or three tournaments before that." 

Explaining the importance of competing internationally, he added, "I play with more international pairs and I'm much better prepared for the major competitions coming up. Because I need that exposure and I need to play with athletes who are much more superior and stronger than me."

Chamaria credited his family and Portuguese coach David Henriquez for their support, adding, "And hopefully, under him, I'll perform more better and try to get a medal for India in the Paralympics."