ARMY EASTERN GAMES – 2018 CONCLUDES SUCCESSFULLY

The three day long Army Eastern Games - 2018, one of the most distinctive events in sports calendar of the Security Force Headquarters (East), concluded with glamour at Security Force Headquarters (East) grounds, Welikanda on 05 May. The event was organized with an eye of providing a platform for young Army athletes to showcase their skills and engage in competition to promote sportsmanship. The Closing Ceremony was graced by Commander Security Force (East), Major General Santhusitha Pananwala as the Chief Guest.

Upon a warm welcome extended to the Chief Guest and accompanied to the grand stand in an elegant procession, the Commander Security Force (East) was ushered in the midst of distinguished guests to witness final rounds of several athletic events as the mega event was reaching its climax. Army athletes, representing SFHQ (E), 22 Division, 23 Division, 24 Division and FMA (East) vied in the athletics meet against their fellow-athletes as keen sportsmen and women of the Eastern Theatre while showcasing their high standards of professional sportsmanship.

Comprised of 35 track and field events, the annual meet mirrored the enthusiasm Army sportsmen and women have in Marathon races and relays, Long distance running, High and Long Jumps, Shot Puts, Javelin, Discus throwing and an array of other different athletic events. The tournament reached its zenith after initial competitions got underway before competitors took part in final rounds.

The day's final programme covered events, such as 1500 m Men's Final, 100 m Women's Final, 100 m Men's Final, Tug of War Women's Final, Tug of War Men's Final, 4×100 m Women's Final and the 4×400 m Men's Final. As the events of the Championship were progressing, the relay events of invited schools, 4 x 400 relay of Defence Services and the Band Display added variety to the event while the performers of the Reality Based Self Defence Display marveled the viewers through their talents.

22 Division with 193 points and 3 (V) Sri Lanka Army Women’s Corps with 246 points secured Men’s and Women’s Championships while 23 Division and 5 (V) Sri Lanka Army Women’s Corps became Runners-up. Second Lieutenant D M Kanishka Gayashan of 16 Battalion of Sri Lanka National Guard was awarded as the Best Athlete (Male) while Lance Corporal Madhuwanthi I L S of 3 (V) Sri Lanka Army Women’s Corps awarded as the Best Athlete (Female).