The Sri Lanka Athletics Association has recently announced the 13-member team that will be representing the country at the 25th Asian Athletics Championship, set to take place in Thailand from July 12th to 16th.
This championship holds significant importance in the Asian athletics calendar, and although it typically occurs every two years, this edition has been delayed by four years due to covid.
The Sri Lankan squad for the championship is comprised of athletes who have showcased their medal-winning potential in recent times. Out of the 13 members, 8 are female and 5 are male.
Gayantika Abeyrathne, a seasoned athlete who has previously won medals in the Asian Athletics Championship, will be representing Sri Lanka in the 800m and 1500m events. She is regarded as the most experienced athlete in the squad.
Joining her in the squad are Sarangi Silva and Nadisha Lekamge, both of whom have consistently performed well and secured medals in recent competitions, particularly in the South Asian Games. Their inclusion adds strength to the Sri Lankan team.
Tharushi Karunaratne, who impressed with her performance in the 800m event at the Asian Youth Championship, is a notable athlete in the team. She will be participating in the 800m, 4x400m relay, and mixed 4x400m events.
The squad also features Randi Cooray, who will compete in the triple jump event and Nadisha Ramanayake who will feature in the 400m,4x400m relay and mixed 4x400m relay, along with Nishrendra Fernando and Sayuri Mendis, who have been selected for the 4x400m relay and mixed 4x400m relay.
In the Men’s division, Aruna Darshan and Rajitha Rajakaruna will represent Sri Lanka in the 400m event, while Pasindu Kodikara, Pabasara Niku, and Kalinga Kumarage have been chosen for the 4x400m relay and mixed 4x400m relay.
The Sri Lankan squad named for the Championship is as follows
Men
- Aruna Dharshana (400m, 4x400m, mixed 4x400m)
- Rajitha Rajakaruna (400m, 4x400m, mixed 4x400m)
- Kalinga Kumarage (4x400m, mixed 4x400m)
- Pasindu Kodikara (4x400m, mixed 4x400m)
- Pabasara Niku (4x400m, mixed 4x400m)
Women
- Gayantika Abeyrathne (800m,1500m)
- Nadisha Lekamge (Javelin Throw)
- Randi Cooray (Triple Jump)
- Sarangi Silva (Long Jump)
- Nadheesha Ramanayake (400m, 4x400m, mixed 4x400m)
- Tharushi Karunaratne (800m, 4x400m, mixed 4x400m)
- Nishrendra Fernando (4x400m, mixed 4x400m)
- Sayuri Mendis (4x400m, mixed 4x400m)
