Susanthika Jayasinghe who was chief guest at the Olympic Day Run said that athletics would be be in safe hands if administrators follow the military which does not change policies whenever its head retires.
She made the remarks when the Olympic Day run was held in Matara on June 25 while recalling that her parents faced many hardships but were unable to find the means to provide the facilities during her young days.
“I earnestly request all parents to give the maximum that they can afford to their children so that they can give their best performance towards sports,” said Susanthika.
Jayasinghe also said that top officials of sports bodies made policies to improve sports in this country but when a new set of officials take over these policies are thrown out and a new set of policies introduced that spells disaster.
“Even in the Armed Forces when the commander retires the new commander will continue with the same policies that existed. If the officials of sports governing bodies too follow this system then sports can reach higher levels,” noted Jayasinghe. She was there to display her Silver medal won at the 2000 Sydney Olympics to the public.
The Olympic Day Run was held to mark the 125th anniversary of Olympics on a grand scale. The event saw 1000 schoolchildren from the district along with their school bands taking part. The day commenced with many activities on the beach with the aim of educating the children on creating a pleasant environment vital for healthy living. They cleaned a two kilometre stretch on the beach front with the support of the Navy and Army. A tree planning program was also held.
In addition special attention was given to the introduction of artificial coral to replenish the destruction caused with the assistance of the Coral Conversation Centre and the Navy based in Polhena, Matara. The NOC also conducted an exhibition of beach volleyball, beach Kabaddi, surfing and life saving for the beach goers in Matara. The art competition saw over 2500 students from the district in the age categories of under-12, 15 and 17 participate. The winners and two runners-up in each age group were presented with trophies and certificates.
President of the NOC Suresh Subramanium in his welcome speech said: “Sport is one attraction that has the ability to unite people putting aside all differences. The Olympics gives this message to all citizens with its main theme depicting participation is more important than winning. Even if a sportsman or woman loses, there is something that encourages him or her to move forward until they achieve their target.”
Young students design an artificial chunk of coral to be deposited into the sea as part of the Olympic Day celebrations in Matara