Sri Lanka shine at World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe
Samitha Dulan
Sri Lanka shine at World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe
Dialog Axiata PLC powered Sri Lankan para athletes proudly hoisted the Lion flag as they won three medals—silver and two bronze medals at the World Para Athletics Championships held in Kobe, Japan. The event concluded yesterday, with five athletes from Sri Lanka competing for honours.
Sprinter Indika Gamage secured a bronze medal in the T44 100m final held on Monday, clocking a time of 11.83 seconds. Gamage qualified for the final after winning the Heat 1 with an impressive time of 11.75 seconds.
However, it was thrower Samitha Dulan who captured the spotlight by establishing a new world record in the Men’s F44 Javelin Throw event on Tuesday. The 33-year-old veteran won the silver medal in the F64 event with a remarkable throw of 66.49 meters, earning a place in sporting history.
Indika Gamage
In the men’s Shot Put F42 category, Palitha Bandara with an attempt of 14.27 meters secured the bronze medals on Saturday as Sri Lanka finished with three medals at the nine-day competition.
The 2020 Tokyo Paralympics Games and 2023 Paris World Championships bronze medallist set the world record in his very first attempt and followed up with throws of 63.96m, 53.91m, 59.81m, 56.51m, and 65.01m in subsequent attempts.
Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s premier connectivity provider is the proud sponsor of the National Paralympic Committee and this partnership aligns with the company’s ongoing dedication to empowering differently abled individuals in the country.
The company’s sponsorship also includes funding for training programmes, domestic championships, international competitions, and other essential activities that support the development of para-athletes. This financial backing ensures that athletes have access to the best coaching, facilities, and opportunities to compete at the highest levels.