Organized by the ABA for the 89th consecutive year, the National Championships will commence at on the 9th December at 3.00pm, continuing for five days at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium Colombo, with the expectancy of 5000 spectators.
The combat this year will comprise of tri forces, Police, affiliated clubs of MAS and schools.
The meet is open to all male & female boxers over 19 years, with an upper age limit of 40. Only those boxers who have already qualified to take part in major meets before or Winners/Runners up at the ABA Novices, Intermediates, Stubbs Shield and winners of Junior Nationals are qualified to take part in this meet.
The General weigh-in preceded by the medical examination for the male and female boxers will be held on 8th December 2013 between 8.00 am – 10.00 am at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium. The draw will commence at 2.00pm on the same day at the Sugathadasa hotel. The AIBA 10 points computer system, computerized draw and ABA Ex-Co Approved Seeding system for men and women boxers will be used for the draw. The Medical examination and daily weigh-in on 9th , 10th , 11th , 12th and 13th December 2013 for the male and female boxers who are fighting on that day will be held from between 7.00am to 8.00 am at the same venue.
The most successful boxer of last year, Anusha Kodittuwakku, will grace the tournament this year. She will dominate the ring this year too with her “swan song” amidst 5000 powerful voices. Further the re-emergence of Manju Wanniarachchi, an old boy of Vidyartha College, Kandy, from a two year ban will keep the momentum of enthusing boxing continuing.
The most awaited and thrilling bouts will be between Manju and the current unbeaten national champion Gayan Jayaweera in the Bantam Weight under 56kg category. The enthusiasts of the sport will no doubt be able to look forward to a keenly contested fight. National tournaments such as these will ensure that the much needed experience is imparted and the skills are honed for more victories at international levels.
The winners of the tournament in the varying weight categories will qualify for the Commonwealth Games 2014 scheduled to be held in Scotland. The Boxers will be chosen based on their tactical ability, physical fitness, ring craft, ability to win International medals and the exceptional performances depicted on the final day of the tournament. All winners, runners up and semifinalist will receive medals and certificates. The best male and female boxers will receive special awards.
