Sri Lanka Athletics (SLA) launched a book to mark the centenary year at the former Sports Ministry headquarters at Independent Square on Thursday (7).
The book authored by Saman Kumara Gunawardena contains all records, rules and regulations and all other delicate details that can be obtained since the 1830s. Incidentally, Saman Kumara as he is better known, was the record keeper and statistician for athletics for many years. He is the most knowledgeable person in athletics.
The book also contains rare photos of past athletes that have never been seen in the past. It is unbelievable to see the number of photos that has been published. The picture of young Duncan White has never been seen before.
We were not aware that the first athletic meet held in this island nation was on June9, 1868 at the Kandy Army Shooting ground. This saw most of the sports and drills that was done by the soldiers.
In January 1922 Colonel TR Wright was elected as the first president of the Ceylon Amateur Athletic Association. The Secretary was Robert Camack.
It also mentions of the third Asian Games that was held in Tokyo in 1958 and the first schools meet that was held in 1930. This meet saw Royal College emerge as the overall champions.
Incidentally it has taken Saman Kumara three years to compile this book that will certainly be cherished by athletic lovers.
Former Olympic athlete Wimalasena Perera, who is the oldest living athlete, was the chief guest at the launch of this book.