1 December 2018 12:00 am
He was a well known senior citizen of Kandy respected by all communities, one time Kandy Lions president. He was a versatile sportsman and a dedicated sports promoter. Dr Ismail started his schooling at Badulla Convent, from where he went to Uva College. When his father got a transfer to the Galle Police he had to attend St. Aloysius College. From there he went to Wesley College where he excelled in hockey which was his pet game. He also played cricket and took part in athletics. He was president of the Kandy District Hockey Association for many years. He was also one time president of the Kandy Association Football League and held the post for nearly ten years. It was hockey and football he loved so much and gave a big hand to both sports.
He was also the president of the Kandy YMMA, where he promoted outdoor and indoor sports like football, hockey, table tennis, badminton, carrom and the cue sports in a big way. He was the son of late Mohamed Ismail who was the first Muslim Serjeant-at-Arms.
Samad is no more, but his memories in the sporting, Lions and medical field will remain forever in the minds of all those who knew him. He will not be forgotten by the sports loving public of Kandy.