Former Olympian and Asian Games gold medalist Damayanthi Darsha has called for urgent reforms in Sri Lanka’s sports associations, which have long been plagued by allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement. With the recent political shift in the country, Darsha emphasized the need for immediate action to address these issues.

For years, nearly all sports associations in Sri Lanka have faced widespread criticism for misconduct and mismanagement. The National Olympic Committee (NOC) recently came under intense scrutiny for corruption allegations, prompting intervention from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Many top officials in national sports associations have remained in power for over a decade, often leveraging their experience as a justification to retain their positions. However, Darsha highlighted how these officials have manipulated constitutions to entrench themselves in power, making it difficult for fresh talent to take over. While the Sri Lankan public voted for new leadership in the general elections, the same has not been reflected in sports association elections.

“Immediate action must be taken against the allegations surrounding Sri Lanka’s sports associations,” Darsha stated following the recent election results.

She further explained, “These associations and their officials have altered constitutions to benefit themselves, securing positions for extended periods and reappointing allies. This has tarnished the reputation of sports in the country. It is essential to amend the sports law to ensure accountability and appoint officials dedicated to serving the interests of the nation and sports.”

Darsha remains a celebrated figure in Sri Lanka’s athletics history, holding the national record in the 400m with a time of 51.05 seconds. She has won three Asian Games gold medals and four Asian Championship gold medals. Darsha also expressed her support for her former teammate, Sugath Thilakarathne, who was recently elected as a Member of Parliament.

On a related note, Sunil Kumara Gamage assumed duties as Sri Lanka’s new Sports Minister on Tuesday (19). Gamage pledged to prioritize the fight against corruption, emphasizing his commitment to implementing a well-structured plan to address these issues.

“Our government stands firmly against corruption, and I am ready to take decisive action,” Gamage declared during his inaugural address.

The call for reforms from both Darsha and Gamage signals a critical moment for Sri Lanka’s sports associations to address longstanding issues and restore public trust.

Paralympics 2024

Samitha Dulan Kodithuwakku of Sri Lanka bagged a Silver medal in the Men’s Javelin Throw (F64) event at the ongoing Paralympic Games 2024 in Paris.

He recorded his fifth throw of 67.03m, breaking the previous world record in the F44 category. This was his best throw of his night, as his previous throws were 63.14, 63.61, 55.01 and 63.73.

Dulan’s accomplishment also signifies the first silver medal for Sri Lanka in the history of the Paralympics.

India’s Sumit Antil successfully defended his gold medal in the Men’s Javelin Throw F64 category, achieving a throw of 70.59 meters. The bronze medal was awarded to Michal Buran of Australia, who recorded a distance of 64.89 meters.

This is not the first occasion on which Dulan has brought honor to his country; he previously claimed a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games with a personal best of 65.61 meters and also secured a bronze medal at the World Para Athletics World Championship 2023 held in Paris, France.

Yupun Abeykoon, renowned as South Asia’s fastest man, showcased his exceptional skills at the Anhalt Athletic Championship, securing a remarkable victory in the men’s 100-meter event with a time of 10.16 seconds. This triumph propels him one step closer to his ultimate goal for this year: qualifying for the Olympics.

Abeykoon’s exceptional performance at the Anhalt Athletic Championship once again highlighted his remarkable speed and unwavering determination. As a representative of Sri Lanka in the 2021 Olympics, he continues to push his limits and set new records.

Previously, Abeykoon made headlines by becoming the first athlete from South Asia to complete a 100-meter sprint in under 10 seconds, achieving a time of 9.96 seconds. His consistent progress and recent victory solidify his position as a top contender in the realm of global athletics.