COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Sports Ministry has pledged to provide a new set of javelins to world number one javelin thrower Rumesh Tharanga after the equipment he used during his historic international victories was found damaged upon his return to the country.
Rumesh Tharanga arrived in Sri Lanka this (15) morning following a remarkable campaign on the world stage, having secured victory in the men's javelin throw at both the Diamond League Athletics Championship and the World Ultimate Athletics Championship.
The Sri Lankan star also holds the best men's javelin performance recorded by any athlete this year, having produced a sensational throw of 92.62 metres during the Rome leg of the Diamond League series.
A large crowd gathered at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake to welcome the champion home, celebrating one of the most significant achievements in Sri Lankan athletics history.
However, the celebrations were overshadowed by disappointing news after it was revealed that all of the javelins used by Tharanga during his record-breaking season had been damaged during transit. The cause of the incident has not yet been determined.
Speaking to the media upon his arrival, Tharanga expressed both pride and disappointment.
"Unfortunately, all five of the javelins with which I recorded throws beyond 92 metres were damaged during transit due to what appears to have been an oversight involving the aircraft. There is nothing that can be done about it now. So while this is a moment of happiness, I cannot say I left the airport entirely overjoyed. Nevertheless, I am extremely proud to have brought home these two trophies for Sri Lanka."
Responding swiftly to the setback, Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage announced that the Ministry of Sports will provide the athlete with a brand-new set of javelins.
In a statement, the Minister said the ministry would take immediate steps to ensure that Tharanga receives replacement equipment without delay so that his training programme can continue uninterrupted.
