Ayomal Akalanka of Ambagamuwa Central and Oshini Kodikara of St. Lawrance’s Convent, Wellawatta, emerged as the standout athletes in the Under 20 age category at the National Youth Athletics Championships held at the Sugathadasa Stadium on Sunday.
Both athletes, known for their prowess in the Under 18 age category, showcased exceptional skills in the Under 20 events during the three-day Youth Championship.
Akalanka, a hurdler with Ambagamuwa Central, had a remarkable year, clinching medals at the Asian Youth Athletics Championships and the Commonwealth Youth Games. At the National Youth Athletics Championships, he set a new meet record in the Under 20 400 meters hurdles, clocking an impressive 51.47 seconds.
Kodikara, who dominated the Under 18 age category throughout the year, continued her winning streak in the Under 20 age group at the championship. She secured victories in both the Under 20 girls long jump and triple jump events. Her triple jump performance of 12.4 meters earned her the top spot in the age category.
Lakshima Mendis, an Asian Games medallist, claimed the best athlete award in the Over 20 women’s category. Mendis, who broke a longstanding meet record in the Over 20 women’s 400 meters, clocked an impressive 54.24 seconds in her pet event.
Janindu Lakvijaya, the national record holder in the men’s 110 meters hurdles, secured the best athlete award in the Over 20 men’s category for his record-breaking feat of 13.86 seconds.
Gampaha District, amassing 166 points, emerged as the overall champions, with Colombo (96) and Urban Youth (77) finishing second and third, respectively. The championship showcased the remarkable talent and dedication of young athletes, setting the stage for promising futures in Sri Lanka’s track and field.
