The Sri Lanka Men’s 4x400m relay team secured their spot in the World Athletic Championship (WAC) in Budapest, Hungary, ranking 12th out of 16 eligible teams. Confirmed by the athletic Secretary, Saman Kumara Gunawardena, the team’s qualification is notable, with eight teams qualifying directly from the World Championship 2022 finals and the remaining eight through the best performances during the July 30 qualification period.
The team’s key member, Kalinga Kumarage, set a new 400m record at the National Athletic Championship. Comprising Aruna Dharshana, Rajitha Rajakaruna, and Pabasara Niku, the team is poised to make an impact at the championship. However, Sri Lanka sprinter Yupun Abeykoon, who qualified for the World Championship but is based in Italy, will miss the event due to a leg injury. He is focusing on recovery and preparation for the Asian Games.
Sri Lankan women’s javelin thrower, Nadeesha Lekamge, holds the 37th position in the event, where only 36 quota places are available. With the retirement of top-ranked athlete Kara Wigner after winning WC 2022, Lekamge’s chances of advancing to the quota are better. The World Athletics (WA) will officially announce the selection on Saturday (5).
Middle distance athlete Gayanthika Abeyratne ranks 58th, but with only 56 quota places available for the 1500m event, she will miss the chance to compete in the World Championship. Meanwhile, Aruna Darshana is at the 53rd position, where there are 48 quota places eligible for the championship.
Though a promising middle distance athlete, Tharushi Karunaratne couldn’t compete in the 800m event at the last National Championship. As she prioritizes preparation for the upcoming Asian Games in China, her focus remains on future competitions.
