Uniting the Nation in the spirit of Olympism
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After the Covid-19 affected – a barren period of three years where the June 23 ‘Olympic Day’ spectacle was confined to the limits of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) premises and multimedia, the celebrations are finally back on the streets.
The Olympic Day, established in 1948, is a global celebration of sport and getting active that takes place on June 23 each year to commemorate the day – the IOC was founded in 1894 – the birth of the modern Olympic Games. For this year’s Olympic Day, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has launched the “Let’s Move” initiative, which aims to encourage and enable the world to move more every day.
Led by Olympians and created in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), “Let’s
Move” invites everyone to make time for movement every day, for better health.
With regular physical activity helping to prevent non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes and several cancers, the importance of living an active, healthy lifestyle is undeniable. But despite this, people around the world are moving less. A 2022 report revealed that 81 per cent of adolescents and 27.5 per cent of adults are not meeting these goals.
Not having enough time in the day is one of the most common reasons given for not being able to reach this goal. At the same time, starting with just 30 minutes of movement a day has significant health benefits for hearts, bodies and minds.
So this year, the entire Olympic Movement got behind the “Let’s Move” initiative, with over 150 National Olympic Committees across five continents hosting Olympic Day celebrations in their territories – with around five million people participating in the festivities.
For Sri Lanka’s edition, the Colombo Municipality came in as an official partner in a bid to be more inclusive and penetrative. On this occasion, the programme was christened – “Imagination and Understanding of Olympism”.
Prior to the celebrations proper, there were a plethora of other activities organized to add value to the concept. There were programmes such as the Exhibition by the French Embassy: Paris 2024, which introduced four champions through the work of four photo artists.
These images shake up stereotypes, giving the public a modern insight into socially-engaged athletes.
This photo exhibition was displayed by the Embassy of France at the Viharamadevi Park.
NOC Sri Lanka annually conducts an Art Competition during the Olympic Day Celebrations. An Olympic Day-related theme was utilized to draw paintings by school children aged between 12 to 18 years of age.
Following the initial online submission, the best-selected 50 finalists were invited to the NOC Sri Lanka headquarters for the final contest. The Olympic Day celebrations on June 23 in Sri Lanka commenced with a dynamic day run that wound its way around the picturesque Viharamahadevi Park, from the main gate of the Park to the Open Air Theatre.
Participants from various walks of life, including a multitude of personalities which includes celebrities,- present and past athletes, children from five schools, namely – Ratnavali Balika Vidyalaya, Susamayawardena Vidyalaya, Seevali Madya Maha Vidyalaya, St. Mary’s Girls’ School Polwatta and
All Saints’ College, winners of the Olympic Day Art Competition and others who are directly and indirectly involved with the celebrations which count to around one thousand people, converged to commemorate this momentous occasion.
Another first in this year’s celebrations was the involvement of athletes who are involved in the NOC
SL-Crysbro “Next Champ” athletes who were responsible to unveil the talents of a multitude of athletes.
They are also a strategic partner in the NOC Programme. Leading the crowd were a fleet of roller skaters, followed by majestic horse riders, and the school band of Ratnawali Balika Vidyalaya.
The Olympic torch, a symbol of the Olympic spirit, was prominently carried during the front walk by multiple prominent athletes and invitees. Adding to the event’s grandeur, the esteemed French Ambassador, Jean-François Pactet, graced the occasion as the chief guest.
Following the walk, the celebrations proceeded to the Open Air Theatre, where the event came to an open, highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage through a captivating dance performance. Later the celebrations featured captivating performances by talented DanceSport athletes, showcasing their skills in various dance styles. From striking Hip Hop dances to energetic Latin rhythms, the dancers enthralled the audience with their precision, agility, and artistic flair.
Then, the event served as a platform to recognize the winners of the Olympic Day art competition. The Top 10 winners were honoured for their outstanding creations that vividly captured the Olympic values of friendship, respect, and excellence.
The recognition and gifts presented to these talented individuals served as an encouragement to pursue their artistic endeavors further. The best 50 paintings were displayed during the day as well. As the event drew to a close, participants and spectators had the opportunity to explore demonstration stalls hosted by the E-Sports and Archery Federations of Sri Lanka.
These interactive exhibits provided a hands-on experience, allowing attendees to try their hand at Archery and immerse themselves in the world of E-Sports. This unique addition to the celebrations not only piqued interest but also encouraged individuals to explore new avenues of physical activity and competition.
Sri Lanka’s Olympic Day celebrations were a testament to the NOC’s dedication to promoting the Olympic values and fostering a culture of sportsmanship – where the event’s setting, dynamic activities and cultural showcases united participants in the spirit of “Let’s Move.”
The Top 10 of the Art Competition
1: M.D. Sarani Samadhi Jayamanna
2: Nulara Nelindee Ekanayake
3: B.D. Methuki Nethma
4: Sarah Suresh
5: D. Senuli Dinara Wilathgamuwa
6: Panindu Rathnage
7: Thathsilu Sewhas
8: P.L.P. Binuthi Lochana Kodagoda
9: H.A. Ashika Senura Chamathka
10: A.R. Ishari Janithya