Athletics: Stage II of 99th National Championships postponed

The Stage II of the 99th National Athletics Championship, which was to take place on August 9 and 10 at the Sugathadasa Stadium, has been postponed indefinitely by Sri Lanka Athletics (SLA).

SLA had made arrangements to conduct the second phase of the 99th Sri Lanka Athletics National Championships on Monday and Tuesday behind closed doors. 

But due to the present crisis caused by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisers had decided not to take undue risks and postponed the two-day event until further notice.  

SLA conducted the first stage 99th National Championships enabling athletes to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics. 

The first stage held on May 21 had nine main events earmarking the Olympics with the ratification of the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF).

Other than the previous editions, SLA did not entertain entries this year due to the pandemic situation and health restrictions. 

Only selected athletes, who reached standards were invited by SLA. 

The governing body published the eligible list on July 24 and the time period for appeal on entries, which ended on August 3. 

SLA issued the final event list and the numbers of athletes on August 5.

According to previous arrangements, under strict health guidelines, only the coaching staff and support staff of athletes could enter the venue three hours before the event. 

Athletes were advised to leave the premises within two hours after their respective events. 

With the latest development, SLA will wait for the health authorities to provide clearance for a future date, with the same arrangements to follow.