COLOMBO: (ePRESS) – Ten-year-old Mikhail ZaviourDean of St Peter’s College Bambalapitiya, a third-generation Peterite and California native, is lighting up Sri Lanka’s athletics field, defying both expectations and a rare heart condition. Born in 2013 to a family deeply rooted in sports, Mikhail is fast becoming a symbol of hope and determination, inspiring countless young athletes.
Mikhail has made a powerful mark on the track this year. His incredible speed and versatility have earned him gold medals, shattered records, and established him as a rising star in the Under-12 age group.
At the Schools Athletics Meet, Mikhail clinched gold in the 100m and 80m races. He carried his momentum into the Zonal Meet, where he dominated the 100m, 60m, and long jump events, proving his mettle across multiple disciplines. His performance at the Quadrangular Meet in July—featuring St. Peter’s, St. Benedict’s, St. Anthony’s, and St. Joseph’s—was another major milestone. Mikhail not only won the 80m but also broke the long jump record, showcasing a combination of speed and skill rarely seen in athletes his age.
He excelled at the Ritzbury Relay Carnival in Badulla this year and broke records at the SA Meet at Sugathadasa Stadium. In September, he set a new record in the 60m at the Western Province Athletic Championship, further cementing his reputation as an athlete to watch.
But Mikhail is not just a track star. As the dynamic winger and leading try scorer for the school’s Under-12 A-side rugby team, he also represents St. Peter’s in basketball and excels as a swimmer. His relentless dedication to sports reflects his family’s legacy of excellence.
Mikhail’s father, Zaviour Ganeshalingam, was a triple coloursman at at St. Peter’s College, excelling in athletics, hockey captain, and rugby before pursuing higher education in California. His mother, Shamra Baurdeen, a former Bishop’s College standout, was a national-level athlete. Even Mikhail’s older sister, Shakirah ZaviourDean, shines in basketball, netball, and diving, representing Bishop’s College with distinction.
What sets Mikhail apart is his resilience in managing a rare heart condition while competing at the highest levels. His family and school have played a pivotal role in his journey, offering unwavering encouragement. Mikhail expressed heartfelt gratitude to Rev Fr Rohitha Rodrigo, Rector of St. Peter’s College, and Rev Fr Milan Bernard, Rector of the Primary School, for their constant support.
“I am deeply grateful to Rev Fr Rohitha and Rev Fr Milan for believing in me,” Mikhail shared. “Despite my medical challenges, their encouragement has been a blessing on and off the track.”
Mikhail also credits his coaches, including Milinda Abeysuriya, the main architect of his athletic success, and Sports In-Charge Rev. Fr. Thusitha Solangaarachchi. Field events coach Shanas de Silva has also played a key role in shaping the young star’s journey, while St. Peter’s Athletics is guided by coach Jayashantha Fernando.
