In the world of sports and athleticism, a grand event unfolded that promises to captivate hearts, inspire dreams, and foster international unity. The 31st International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Games, also known as the Universiade, is poised to be a remarkable international multi-sport event held in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province with the slogan "Chengdu Makes Dreams Come True".
Between July 28 and August 8, a total of 6,500 competitors from 113 nations and regions throughout the world competed in 269 events in 18 sports in Chengdu, including artistic gymnastics, athletics, badminton, rowing, swimming, and table tennis. They not only competed against some of the world's best athletes their age, but they also got a taste of Chengdu's traditional culture as the Universiade has become a symbol of international camaraderie, showcasing the power of sport to bridge cultural divides with a legacy dating back to 1959.
Sri Lanka’s 17-member contingent was consistent players of the University of Moratuwa, Sri Jayewardenepura, Colombo, Peradeniya, Kelaniya, Ruhuna, and Sabaragamuwa led by players as Amasha De Silva, Tharindu Dasun Samaraweera, Chamal Kumarasiri, Hiruna Warushawithana, Nimesh Ranchagoda. Also the nation's young and promising athletes K.L.N.Niroshana, Thanushi Rodrigo, Chamathsara Fernando, R.R.D. Ranathunga, L.P.W. Thisarani, Chathusha Dalpathadu, I.M. Abeyaratne, S.M.S.S Senarathne, Hasara Wijerathne, Hasini Ambalangoda, A. S. Vidanage, and Amaya Kalukottage were gearing up to showcase their prowess on the global stage.
Amasha de Silva of the University of Sri Jayawardenepura qualified for the semi-finals in the 100m Women's Heat 1 with 11.89 seconds, securing the 5th position. She was named the country's best sprinter last year and was able to secure a spot among the top ten athletes in the Asian continent via the Asian rankings in the 100m event. In 2018, Amasha was the South Asian Junior Champion in the 100m and 200m events.
At the table tennis arena, Hiruna Warushawithana from the University of Moratuwa beat Cypress by 3-0 while Nuwantha Niroshana from Sabaragamuwa University beat Mongolia by 3-2. In the next round, Hiruna won with a 3-2 victory over Slovakia, and Nuwantha Niroshana earned a victory by 3-2 against Azerbaijan. The duo also had a perfect 0-3 victory over Omen in men’s doubles. In badminton singles, Hasara Wijerathne of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura won with a score of 0-2 against Singapore in the preliminary rounds.
Tharindu Dasun Samaraweera of the University of Sri Jayawardenepura reached 2.10m in the high jump qualifiers and finished 19th overall. In triple jump qualifiers, Chamal Kumarasiri of the University of Sri Jayawardenepura leaped 15.30m and placed overall 17th.
While powerhouses like China, Japan, Korea, and Italy dominate the medal podium, it's worth noting that Sri Lankan players have put up quite a fight for their titles. In the end, the Games serve as a reminder that academic excellence and athletic achievement can harmoniously coexist. And beyond the medals and records, the Universiade underscores the importance of cultural exchange.
The 32nd World University Games will be held in the Rhine-Ruhr, Germany after two years, with the slogan "Rhine-Ruhr 2025 - Passionately Connected by Fire and Water”.
"Your successes and even your struggles remind us that it's not just about winning medals, but about a journey and friendships made along the way that may last a long time," stated FISU Acting President Leonz Eder, who attended the closing ceremony.
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