MOROCCO, June 15 (ePRESS) – Young sailor Haren Wickramatillake of S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, created history by becoming the first Sri Lankan ever to represent the country at the prestigious International Optimist Dinghy Association (IODA) World Championship currently being held in Tangier, Morocco.
The landmark achievement marks a major milestone for Sri Lankan sailing as Haren competes against some of the world’s best young sailors at one of the sport’s most respected youth events. He is accompanied by Sri Lanka National Sailing Coach Krishan Janaka.
The 15-year-old earned his place at the world championship following an impressive performance at the recent Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, where he finished 10th among Asia’s leading young sailors. The result highlighted his growing reputation and potential on the international stage.
His participation in Morocco is seen as a breakthrough moment for Sri Lankan sailing and reflects the steady progress being made in developing young talent in the sport.
Officials believe Haren’s achievement will inspire a new generation of sailors and encourage more young athletes to take up competitive sailing while raising Sri Lanka’s profile in the international sailing community.
The historic campaign has been made possible through the support of several sponsors and well-wishers. KiCo Coconut Water, Alumex PLC and a number of anonymous donors contributed towards funding Haren’s participation at the championship.
Their support has enabled Sri Lanka to be represented for the first time at one of the world’s most prestigious youth sailing competitions, opening a new chapter for the country’s sailing future.
