BALI, Indonesia, August 25, 2025 (ePRESS) – At just 13 years old, Kael Liyanage stood with his silver medal around his neck, smiling shyly as cameras flashed at the Bali Open 2025 Shooting Championship. For Sri Lanka, his achievement was more than a medal – it was a glimpse of the future.
Kael, a student of the British School in Colombo, competed in the PCC Junior event. Against older and more experienced rivals, the teenager showed calmness, control, and courage. Each shot he fired with steady hands carried the hopes of a small island nation. When his name was called for second place, Kael quietly bowed his head, but for his coaches and teammates, it was a moment of pride that will be remembered for years.
“I just focused on one shot at a time,” Kael said after the final. “I wanted to do my best for Sri Lanka.”
He was not alone in lifting the flag. Rael Liyanage – sharing the same determination – won silver in the Handgun Junior category, while Daniel Kao fought hard to claim bronze in the same event. Their performances showed that Sri Lanka’s new generation of shooters are beginning to make their mark on the Asian stage.
Experience also had its place in Bali. Lt. Col. (Retired) Janaka Ritigahapola, a veteran marksman, used his steady nerves and years of practice to win silver in the Handgun Senior event. His medal linked the wisdom of the old guard with the energy of the youth.
The Bali Open, held from August 18 to 23, brought together the best talent from across Asia. For Sri Lanka to return with four medals was hailed as one of the nation’s best overseas results in shooting.
