Air Force chief felicitates SLAF athletes

The Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, felicitated Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) athletes who excelled at the 4th South Asian (SAAF) Senior Athletics Championships held in Ranchi, India, from 24 to 26 October 2025. The ceremony took place this morning (03 November) at Air Force Headquarters.

A total of 59 athletes represented Sri Lanka at the event, including nine from the SLAF. The Air Force contingent made a remarkable contribution to the country’s success by winning two gold, three silver, and one bronze medal.

During the ceremony, Air Marshal Edirisinghe presented cash rewards to the athletes in recognition of their exceptional achievements and sportsmanship. In appreciation of their performances, six medal-winning athletes were promoted to the rank of Acting Corporal.

The newly promoted athletes include:

Aircraftman Tharanga P.R. – Gold Medal in Javelin Throw (new meet record) and Best Athlete of the Meet

Leading Aircraftwoman Kaushalya K.H.A.D. – Gold Medal in 400m Hurdles (new meet record)

Leading Aircraftman Kumara U.D.Y.W. – Silver Medal in Long Jump

Aircraftman Sathsarani L.G.A. – Silver Medal in 400m Hurdles

Aircraftman Fernando M.A.N.H. – Silver Medal in 4x400m Relay

Leading Aircraftwoman Lakmali A.G.V.V. – Bronze Medal in Discus Throw

Additionally, Aircraftman Korala A.K. (4th place – Triple Jump), Leading Aircraftwoman Kumari K.G.N.M.A. (4th place – 1500m), and Leading Aircraftwoman Silva H.K.T.D. (standby athlete – 4x100m Relay) were recognized for their commendable participation.

The Air Force Commander also extended his gratitude to the coaching team, presenting cash rewards to seven dedicated coaches — M.A.T. Prasanna, R.M.A.P. Rathnayaka, D.C.A. Dahanayaka, Rohitha Gunarathne, K.A. Ravindu Theekshana, J.M.D.N. Herjinas, and Luis Miranda Ramirez — for their guidance and contribution to the athletes’ success.