Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne was the Chief Guest at the Colombo Open Archery International Tournament and world record attempt held at the Mahinda Rajapaksa Stadium in Diyagama yesterday (16).
The event held at Diyagama stadium saw a large gathering of contestants and a stiff competition.
The Chief Guest General Gunaratne during his speech while mentioning the keen cricket fans that pack stadiums, and athletes who have proudly represented our nation on the global stage, said “we have always recognized the importance of sports as a unifying force”.
He is of the view that “it is through sports that we build character, learn valuable life lessons and nurture a sense of national pride”.
The Defence Secretary also extended his wishes to all participants for their dedication, skill and sportsmanship and further, commended all award recipients and the archers attempting the world record.
He also cited the immense contribution of Capt. IndranathPerera who is instrumental in improving archery as a sport in Sri Lanka.
Maj Gen. LalChandrasiri Director General of the Diyagama Sports Complex, Army Capt. (Retd) IndranathPerera, organizing committee of archery and game participants were present at the ceremony.
