A tribute ceremony was organized by the Sri Lanka Athletics Institute to honor the Asian medal-winning athletes today (31) in Colombo.
The event aimed to recognize the coaches who played a pivotal role in shaping and guiding these athletes to achieve historic international medals. However, it was noted that despite the athletes receiving monetary awards for their accomplishments, the coaches were not evaluated or recognized for their contributions.
During the Asian Athletics Championship, individual event gold medalists were awarded 5 lakhs, while bronze medalists received 2 1/2 lakhs. For relay events, gold medalists received 3 lakhs per athlete, and silver medalists were awarded 2 lakhs per athlete. Additionally, Damro Company, the sponsor of the event, presented an amount of Rs. 50 lakhs to the Sri Lanka Athletics Institute to support the upcoming Asian Games.
Despite the financial rewards for the athletes, coaches expressed disappointment that they were not evaluated or recognized for their significant contributions. These coaches invested their time, effort, knowledge, and even personal resources to nurture and elevate the athletes to an international level. They believe that the success of these athletes is a result of their dedication and sacrifice.
In the past, both athletes and their personal trainers were evaluated and recognized during similar ceremonies. The coaches express their frustration and pain at being neglected and undervalued in this manner. They emphasize that it is not solely about monetary compensation but also about the respect and acknowledgment they deserve for their hard work and commitment in developing these athletes.
