By Ayyash AbuBakr (Web Content Team)
The Senior Athletic Team of Trinity College Kandy achieved an impressive top ten finish at the Senior Sir John Tarbet Athletic Meet, held at Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo from the 30th of September to the 3rd of October. Competitors ranging from under 16 to under 20 age categories demonstrated remarkable determination in pursuing a position among Sri Lanka’s top 10 boys’ athletic teams for 2024.
Under the guidance of the captain Master Sachindu Wansekara and head coach Mr Nilco Bandara, with the unwavering commitment of the assistant coaches and the Master charge Mr Ayesh Kalugampitiya the team successfully upheld the proud legacy of Trinity College.
An electrifying performance was delivered by Master Dihen Benthota on the second day, who excelled in the 800m event with a remarkable timing of 2.01.16mins, he turned out to be Sri Lanka’s 4th fastest 800m runner for the under 16 age category. Not only that the Under 16 relay team consisting of Master Akila Ellegala, Master Shavindu Moonamalpe, Master Yumal Jayasuriya, Master Thevith Aluthgedara, and Master Ayyash AbuBakar emerged 5th in the 4x100m relay where they achieved an astonishing timing of 45.48secs.
The key to emerging in the top ten in the country was due to the lions of the under-18 age category. Their winning streak made goosebumps appear on the spectators. Both Master Kalpadith Uyanawaththa and Master Atheeb Riffai secured first and second places in the 400m hurdle. Even though their achievements made everyone happy and grateful, the under-18 4x400m relay team shocked the commentators and the bystanders. A remarkable run by Master Hamza Sufiyan, Master Damrith Gamage, Master Charu Dassanayake, Master Atheeb Riffai, and Master Kalpadith Uyanwaththa left everyone’s jaws dropped. The Lions ran an astounding timing of 3.21.35 min to conquer 2nd place by breaking the national record with just a mere glimpse away from becoming 1st. They were also awarded 1st runners-up for the boys under 18 age category.
Even though both these age categories gave their maximum effort, emerging in the top ten in an all-island athletic meet would not have been possible without the help of the under-20 age category. Their hard work and contribution to the team inspired all the young athletes. The Vice-captain of the Trinity athletic team Master Sadhil Ranaweera executed an exceptional sprint in the 800m race clinching 4th place and earning a timing of 1.56.67mins. The co-vice-captain Master Kavin Gamage ran an impressive 100m final as well. The under 20 4x400m relay team consisting of the captain Master Sachindu Wansekara, Master Sadhil Ranaweera, Master Murad Raiza, Master Kavin Gamage and Master Rahul Sathyasivam ran an astonishing final.
The impressive performances of Trinity College at the Senior Sir John Tarbet Athletic Meet not only highlight the individual talents of its athletes but also underscore the strength of teamwork and dedication. With the unwavering support of their coaches and the strong friendships built among team members, the athletes have truly exemplified the spirit of Trinity College, highlighting resilience and ambition.
The collective achievements of the under-16, under-18, and under-20 categories reflect the commitment and hard work invested in each athlete, setting an example for the young athletes of Trinity College. As the team looks forward to future competitions, their remarkable journey at the Senior Sir John Tarbet Athletic Meet is a testament to their potential and determination. Their hard work and resilience to excellence will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the college’s athletic history.
Photographed by Papare.com
