President Ranil Wickremesinghe met Akila Thirunayaki, a resident of Mulliyavalai, Mullaitivu, who recently clinched two gold medals in the 5000m and 1500m events, along with a bronze medal in the 800m event at the recent Asia Masters Athletics Championship in the Philippines.
This meeting took place at the Governor’s official residence during President Wickremesinghe's four-day tour of the Northern province.
A 72-year-old retired prison officer, Akila Thirunayaki showcased her athletic prowess from an early age and holds the position of the sixth sibling in a family comprising four brothers and nine sisters.
Having served as a prison officer before retiring, she has not only represented the country but has also clinched gold, silver, and bronze medals in various veterans’ tournaments held in Thailand, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia and India.
During the meeting, President Wickremesinghe engaged in a friendly conversation, inquiring about Thirunayaki’s sports activities.
As a gesture of encouragement, the President presented her with a gift voucher, acknowledging her remarkable achievements in the field of athletics.
