Army takes squash to higher ground | Page 2 | Sunday Observer

Army takes squash to higher ground

23 December, 2018
Army commander Lt. General Mahesh Senanayake (centre) speaks to the media on their future plans. Others in the picture are Lt. General Jagath Gunawardena (left) president of Army Sports and Air Commodore (Rtd) Ajith Abeysekera (right) president of Sri Lanka Squash.   Picture by Wimal Karunathilake
Army commander Lt. General Mahesh Senanayake (centre) speaks to the media on their future plans. Others in the picture are Lt. General Jagath Gunawardena (left) president of Army Sports and Air Commodore (Rtd) Ajith Abeysekera (right) president of Sri Lanka Squash. Picture by Wimal Karunathilake

The Army has come forward with the notion that a ‘Healthy Army-Healthy Nation’, has decided to support the 38th National Squash Championship that will be played at their cantonment squash complex in Panagoda from December 27 to 30.

Army has take to sports in a big way and to help squash bloom they have built well equipped squash courts with modern technicalities. They have made all arrangements to conduct the nationals at the request of Sri Lanka Squash.

Men’s champion Ravindu Laksiri who has held the title for the past five years will be looking forward to defend the title again. The women’s title holder is Mihiliya Methsarani who has won it over the past two years is also a hot favourite to defend the title. She could face stiff challenge by Fathoum Issadeen who emerged champion in the Air Force squash tournament last month. The events to be worked out are the men’s and women’s Open, Men’s over-35, Mastersover-45, Veterans’ over-50, Veterans over-55, men’s Novices and women’s Novices.Each player can enter only for two events.

Speaking at the media briefing Army commander Lt Gen Mahesh Senanayake said they are taking steps to raise the standard of squash in the country and will encourage school children to use their squash courts for practices and tournaments at junior level as well.

“There is no time restriction to play squash. It can be played even at night after your work. The Army will take the responsibility to improve all sports in the country so that their health will also improve.”We look forward to even sponsoring the National Sports Festival with the intention of improving the standard of sports in the country,” said Lt Gen Senanayake.

Army promotes and sustains 34 sports and has intentions to go far and wide to create a healthy environment in the country. 

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