Sri Lanka missed out on two possible medals at the ongoing Asian Youth Athletics Championship after two female athletes were unable to start the 1500m final due to an official blunder, Ceylon Today reported.
Ayesha Sewwandi from Namadagasweva MV, Hambantota, and Niduki Prarthana from Baranakankattuwa KV, Mundal, were ranked 2nd and 3rd among the participants based on their season-best performances in the 1500m final. Both had traveled with high hopes of securing a podium finish in their maiden international appearance.
However, Ceylon Today reported that the two athletes were not directed to the call room on time by Sri Lankan officials. By the time they arrived, the meet officials had denied them participation, citing that the final call for the event had already been made.
Ayesha is coached by Sujith Abeysekara, alongside former Olympian Nimali Liyanarachchi who oversee her training, while Niduki trains under seasoned coach Madura Perera. Neither of them was part of the official Sri Lankan contingent.
The only middle-distance coach in the Sri Lankan contingent is Buddika Nuwan, who coaches 800m runner Tharushi Abhisheka, while NAT Jayasinghe serves as the team manager.
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