Nadeesha Ramanayake: A Triumph Years in the Making

Nadeesha Ramanayake's remarkable victory in the 400 meters at the Asian Athletics Championships in Bangkok is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. The 29-year-old athlete, representing Sri Lanka, clinched the gold medal with a time of 52.61 seconds, setting a new benchmark for Sri Lankan female sprinters.

Reflecting on her journey, Ramanayake shared her emotional experience with ThePapare.com, expressing how a disappointing 6th place finish in the 2019 Asian Championships fueled her determination to return stronger. "The defeat in 2019 was disheartening. It made me question my future in the sport, but I realized I had to start again and give it my all. I am thrilled to bring a gold medal to Sri Lanka after 23 years," she said.

Ramanayake's win in Bangkok was not just a personal victory but also a historic achievement for Sri Lankan athletics. It was the first time in 23 years that a Sri Lankan woman secured a gold in the 400 meters at an international competition. The last such win was by Damayanthi Darsha in 2000 at the Jakarta Asian Games, where she set an Asian record with a time of 51.05 seconds.

In addition to her individual success, Ramanayake contributed to team events, winning silver in the women's 4x400 meters relay alongside Lakshika Mendes, Nishendra Harshani Pranandu, and Tharushi Disanayake. She also claimed silver in the mixed 4x400 meters relay with Arun Darshana, Tharushi Disanayake, and Kalin Kumar.

Ramanayake credited her success to unwavering support from her coach Buddhika Thushara, medical team, the Sri Lanka Army Athletics Association, and her family. She especially acknowledged her former school teacher Thushari Priyadarshani Wickramasinghe, who played a pivotal role in her early athletic development.

Her journey began at Gonadeniya Maha Vidyalaya and later moved to Veeraketiya Central College, where her passion for running was ignited. Despite early challenges and inconsistencies in training, Ramanayake's breakthrough came in 2010 when she won a silver medal in the 800 meters at the National Schools Games.

Ramanayake’s achievements continued to accumulate as she won gold in the 800 meters at the South Asian Junior Athletics Championships in India and dominated national events from 2013 to 2016. Her transition to the 400 meters in 2018 saw her win gold at the Thailand Open and silver in the 200 meters.

The road to success was not always smooth. She faced setbacks, including dengue fever and the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted her training and competition schedules. However, she persevered and managed a commendable 5th place finish at the Indian Open Athletics Championships.

Looking ahead, Ramanayake is focused on further goals. "This victory is just one milestone in my journey. I am setting my sights on future Asian competitions and the Olympics. My training continues with the same dedication and drive," she said.

Nadeesha Ramanayake’s story is one of resilience and determination, embodying the spirit of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness. Her recent triumph not only brings pride to Sri Lanka but also inspires future generations of athletes.