Rumesh returns to the island after winning the gold medal in Japan (photos)

World Champion Rumesh Tharanga, who won a gold medal in the javelin throw event at the Asian Games, which successfully concluded in Nagoya, Japan, arrived in the island last night (30th). He arrived on Cathay Pacific flight CX from Hong Kong.

He arrived at Katunayake Bandaranaike International Airport around 11:30 PM on passenger flight number 611.

Speaking to journalists at the airport premises, this talented athlete stated that his primary goal this time was to win the gold medal by setting a new Asian record. However, he further stated that due to the rain and adverse weather conditions around the stadium during the competition, the opportunity to break that record was missed.

He also particularly appreciated the support shown by a large number of Sri Lankans living in Japan, who encouraged him as he entered the competition representing his homeland. Rumesh expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those Sri Lankans who traveled a difficult distance of between six hundred and seven hundred kilometers to reach the Nagoya stadium.

For the reception of this victorious athlete, a group of high-ranking officials representing the Ministry of Sports, the Sri Lanka Athletics Association, and the National Olympic Committee were present at Katunayake Airport. In addition, high-ranking officials from the Sri Lanka Air Force and a group of close relatives of Rumesh Tharanga's family were also seen participating in this event.