COLOMBO ; Rising athletics star Safiya Yamick, a gold medalist at the South Asian Senior Athletics Championships, is setting her sights on even greater heights — with her eyes firmly fixed on the 2024 South Asian Games and the 2028 Olympic Games.
She etched her name into the history books by winning gold in the women’s 200 metres at the 4th South Asian Athletics Championships, clocking an astonishing 23.58 seconds.
Her blistering performance not only secured the top podium spot but also shattered a 27-year-old championship record previously held by Indian legend P.T. Usha, set in 1998.
This victory marked Safiya’s third gold medal at the tournament, having already dominated the 100 metres with a time of 11.53 seconds, and anchoring Sri Lanka’s 4×100 metres relay team to gold in 44.70 seconds.
With this triple triumph, Safiya Yameek has officially earned the title of South Asia’s fastest woman, a feat that cements her status as one of the region’s most electrifying young athletes.
Her record-breaking run is not just a personal milestone—it’s a moment of national pride and a powerful signal that Sri Lanka is sprinting toward a new era in athletics.
Reflecting on her journey, Safiya credits her school, Vihara Maha Devi Balika Vidyalaya in Kandy, for being the foundation of her success.
“From Grade 1, I’ve been at the same school, and the support I received there has been incredible,” she shared with heartfelt gratitude.
“I’m truly thankful to everyone who has stood by me and helped me reach this point.”
With her recent triumphs fueling her ambition, Safiya is now preparing for the South Asian Games in January, where she hopes to bring home three more gold medals. But her vision doesn’t stop there.
“I’m working hard with the dream of representing Sri Lanka at the 2028 Olympics and bringing home a medal for my country,” she said with determination.
As one of Sri Lanka’s most promising young athletes, Safiya’s journey is a testament to perseverance, discipline, and the power of early support. Her story continues to inspire a new generation of athletes who dare to dream big.NewsFirst
Image Courtesy: Ceylon Athletics
