The Wrestling Federation of Sri Lanka is yet to apply visa on behalf of Nethmi Ahinsa for her participation at Croatia International Wrestling tournament that begins in just seven days’ time.
Ahinsa should take part in the tournament to qualify for the Olympics.
With Croatia not having an embassy in Sri Lanka, the visa applying process via its mission in New Delhi takes time.
The Sports Ministry and the National Olympic Commission have facilitated Ahinsa’s participation along with her trainer Suranga Pushpakumara.
On an order by minister Harin Fernando, both have been issued with air ticket and other expenses.
Presently ranked 36th in the world, Ahinsa’s absence in the Croatian tournament will relegate her to the 70th position.
She should advance to the 16th position to qualify for Olympics this year.
NOC secretary Maxwell de Silva and sports director general Shemal Fernando have both inquired from the Wrestling Association about its delay in apply for visa for the Ahinsa.
In a first for Sri Lankan female wrestlers, she won bronze in the women’s 57 kg category in the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England.
She is presently training at a makeshift compound at Welpalla village in Kurunegala.
(Prince Gunasekera)
