DOHA : The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the State of Qatar, Sithara Khan, hosted a special
felicitation ceremony for Sri Lankan javelin champion Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage at the
Embassy of Sri Lanka in Doha on 18 June 2026, ahead of his participation in the Wanda
Diamond League to be held at the Qatar Sports Club on 19 June 2026.
Rumesh arrived in Doha following his impressive victory in the men’s javelin event at the
Ostrava Golden Spike Meet in the Czech Republic, where he secured first place with a
remarkable throw of 86.57 metres. His exceptional performances during the season has
elevated him to the current World No. 2 ranking in the men’s javelin throw.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Sithara Khan congratulated Rumesh on his
outstanding achievements and conveyed her best wishes for his event scheduled to take
place on 19 June 2026 at 8.00 p.m. at the Qatar Sports Club. The Ambassador also
commended his dedication and ambition to bring an Olympic medal to Sri Lanka at the
2028 Olympic Games.
In his remarks, Rumesh highted that the event on 19 June in Doha would be an
opportunity to compete with other world champions and expected to achieve his best. He
further expressed his sincere appreciation to his family, coaches, supporters and wellwishers for their continuous encouragement and support throughout his journey. He
highlighted that their support has played a significant role in helping him improve his
performance and continue his pursuit of achieving Olympic success for Sri Lanka.
The event was attended by Rumesh’s father, Thushara Premakeerthi Pathirage, his coach
Tony Prasanna and his Physiotherapist Chandima Sarathchandra Gurusinghe.
Representatives of the Sri Lanka Coordinating Committee led by the President Duleep
Liyanage, Sri Lanka Benevolent Fund, Sri Lanka Business and Professional Council. The
staff of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Doha also attended the event and extended their best
wishes for his upcoming competition.
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Doha joins the Sri Lankan community in wishing Rumesh
every success at the Wanda Diamond League and in his continued journey towards
bringing Olympic glory to Sri Lanka.
