By T. Jayani, JadeTimes News
On the opening day of the 2024 Taiwan Open Athletics, Sri Lankan athletes Tharushi Karunaratne and Aruna Dharshana delivered outstanding performances, each securing gold medals in their respective events.
Tharushi Karunaratne showcased her exceptional talent in the women’s 400m final, recording a new personal best of 52.48 seconds to clinch the gold medal. Fellow Sri Lankan athlete Nadeehsa Ramanayaka also put forth a commendable effort, finishing fourth with a time of 53.93 seconds.
Adding to Sri Lanka's medal tally, Gayanthika Abeyrathne earned a silver medal in the women’s 1500m final, clocking an impressive 4 minutes and 24.66 seconds.
In the men's events, Aruna Dharshana, who began with a solid performance of 47.49 seconds in his 400m heat, delivered an extraordinary run in the finals. Dharshana dominated the competition, finishing with a remarkable time of 45.82 seconds to secure the gold medal.
The second day of the Taiwan Open Athletics Championship is anticipated to be equally thrilling for Sri Lanka. Following their victories in the 400m finals, both Aruna Dharshana and Tharushi Karunaratne are set to compete again, in the men’s 200m and women’s 800m events respectively. Additionally, Nadeesha Lekamge will be aiming to continue Sri Lanka’s streak of success as the competition progresses.