26th December 2023 09:56:14 Hours
In a vibrant celebration of talent and dedication, the Colours Night at Colombo Visakha Vidyalaya illuminated the essence of achievement and recognition. The occasion, held in honour of outstanding sports achievers for the year 2021/2022, radiated with glory and enthusiasm.
Major General Shewanth Kulatunge RWP RSP VSV USP psc, serving as the Chief Field Engineer and Commander of the Engineer Division, graced the Colours Night as the distinguished chief guest, representing Lieutenant General H L V M Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, the Commander of the Army.
Upon their arrival, the Chief guest was greeted with utmost honour as a salute was presented by the president scouts, girls cadets, and the girls' cadet band. Subsequently, the Principal extended a warm and gracious welcome to both the Chief Guest and the accompanying dignitaries. The Chief Guest was accompanied to the main venue by the Principal and members of the staff.
The Principal, Mrs. Manomi Senevirathne, delivered the welcome speech and explained as to why the Chief Field Engineer and Commander of the Engineer Division was invited to be the Chief Guest. The Army’s relentless dedication to promoting sports inspired me to extend this invitation to the eminent military personality, she said.
Under the patronage of the school's principal, this colourful and glamorous event unfolded as a vibrant tribute to the remarkable sporting achievements of Visakhians, both at the national and international level during the years 2021/2022
Cultural and dance performances by the talented Visakhians added colour to this glamorous evening. Subsequently, the Chief Guest was graciously invited to take the stage for the presentation of Colours to the standout individual player, team player and the outstanding sports personality for the years 2021/2022. Additionally, the Chief Guest graciously bestowed several more trophies and cups upon deserving students, further honouring their achievements.
In a compelling address, the Chief Guest underscored the profound importance of sports, emphasizing its pivotal role in nurturing mental and physical growth, fostering determination, and instilling a sense of purpose in life.
A captivated audience comprising students, teachers, and parents filled the venue, bearing witness to the day's proceedings, which resonated with celebration and recognition of exceptional talent and dedication.
Here follows the Chief Field Engineer and Commander of the Engineer Division’s speech;
It is truly an honour this evenning to be amongst the elite sports women of a leading girl’s school in Sri Lanka. As a sportsman myself, having represented Royal College and the Sri Lanka Army in various sports at national level and having represented Sri Lanka at the international level, I commend the sheer hard work you all have contributed towards your journey. Thereby unknowingly you have become a part of a long-standing tradition that began in the 1800s. Colours were awarded as a mark of recognition for outstanding sportsmanship between two of the oldest universities we know of, Oxford, and Cambridge. Thereon, colours have been awarded around the globe for high achievers in sports. Today you have been recognized for your commitment, and rewarded for your perseverance, and excellence.
In our contemporary world sports have evolved to unimaginable heights. During my time and before that, it was generally during the later years of life that one got an opportunity to represent Sri Lanka, but many amongst you’ll have already had the privilege of representing our motherland. This not only highlights the competitiveness sports have thriven into today, but more importantly, the vast avenues and opportunities available for young sports personalities such as yourselves. Yet, throughout the years, sports seem to have lost its real essence of camaraderie, sportsmanship, fair play and most importantly, the fun in it! I do not mean to take away the pride and joy you are feeling at this very moment but thought it fit to mention this because you’ll are our future. From an early age we are taught rivalry, we are taught competition, we are taught never to give up and, sometimes we are tutored to believe that winning is everything. No doubt it is a part of competitive sports, but what we sometimes fail to acquire as good individuals is healthy competition and that winning is not everything. Always give it your best and never give up. This is what maters the most. In the years to come, you will be remembered for how you played the game. You will be remembered for how you supported your team and your teammates, and most importantly you will be remembered for how you helped others to achieve their dreams. Talent has no meaning if you have pompous values. We have one life, one opportunity, so make it count. This alone will leave your legacy in this esteemed institute of learning.
I would be failing if I don’t express my sincere appreciation to the coaches for their untiring efforts and the parents for their unstinted support. Dear parents, help your kids by supporting their journey and cushioning them in their defeats. There is always a next time. Don’t run their race for them. Guide them in deciding what’s best for them, based on their innate talents. but don’t impose. Their life dreams must be their own. That’s when value sets into your child’s life. Let them enjoy their journey.
To the recipients of colours and awards, congratulations. Today is your day. Celebrate your many years of dedication. Enjoy your accomplishments. At the same time, reflect on how you got here. Remember all those who helped you in your journey and think of how you can give back to those who gave you. You owe it to your coaches, your teachers, your mentors, your teammates, and your school that has made you to be what you are today. You and only you, possess the power to bring continued glory to your beloved alma mater and our country. Dream big, be the best in what you do. No matter how good you are today, there is always room to get better. I will leave you with a simple thought to ponder on. The lotus, as we all know, grows in unclear, uncertain, muddy waters, but the flower that blossoms from the plant is the purest and the most beautiful. Likewise, don’t allow the harsh realities of life to take away your dreams. Failure is temporary. Greatness is enduring. Today marks a new chapter in your life and henceforth work towards leaving a legacy for your alma mater, your parents, and your country.
