The official motorcade and main felicitation ceremony to welcome Sri Lankan javelin throwers Rumesh Tharanga and Palitha Bandara, who won gold and silver medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow, was held in a grand manner this morning (05).
A warm welcome from the public and schoolchildren
The national motorcade, which began from the Torrington premises this morning, moved forward amidst the cheers of thousands of public and sports fans gathered on both sides of the road as it passed in front of the National Television and Radio Corporation (Radio Ceylon).
Then, D. The players were welcomed with great enthusiasm by the principals, teachers and students of the schools near S. Senanayake College and Ananda College, hoisting the national flags. Also, special receptions were organized for the players in front of the TV Derana Media Institute premises by its staff and near the Dialog Head Office by its senior officials and others.
As the motorcade reached the Town Hall premises, the Mayor of Colombo, Mrs. Vraie Cally Balthazaar, and representatives of the Municipal Council, paid their respects and congratulated them.
Main ceremony held at Torrington premises
After the motorcade, which had traveled throughout the city, reached the Torrington premises again, the main reception ceremony began. The medal winners were officially welcomed by the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mr. Sunil Kumara Gamage, Deputy Minister of Sports, Mr. Sugath Thilakaratne, Secretary to the Ministry, Mr. Aruna Bandara, Director General of the Department of Sports Development, Mr. S. Achchuthan, along with the heads of the three armed forces and a number of national-level officials.
“Our government recognized Rumesh’s talent as soon as he arrived,” the Minister said, emphasizing that the government would provide full support to enhance the skills of the players and coaches.
“As soon as our government came to power, it took steps to identify the hidden talents of talented players like Rumesh Tharanga and provide them with the necessary support. The results of this are being enjoyed by the entire country today. Through the ‘Mission Olympic’ team that we started, we will continue to provide all the necessary facilities and financial strength not only to all the players but also to the coaching staff behind them.”
After appreciating the players who have achieved international achievements, the Ministry stated that it is committed to developing all aspects of the sports sector with the aim of the upcoming 2028 Olympics.
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