Illukkumbure and Sajeev de Silva top Thomian sportsmen

by Leslie Fernando

SPORTS STARS: W. G. Illukkumbure, Sri Lanka Schools Karate team captain was awarded the 'Thomian Blue' award for representing Sri Lanka at the Indo-Cup 2009 and winning the Open Black Belt Kata event while Sajeev de Silva was awarded the Most Outstanding Sportsman of the Year at S. Thomas' College Colours Nite held at the College Hall. The only 'Thomian Blue' for 2009 was Illukkumbure. Illukkumbure toured India with the Sri Lanka Schools karate team for the Indo Cup - 2009 which was held in Mumbai, India. Schools team won the overall championships with 61 medals.

He was awarded 'college colours' 2008-2009 for karate. In addition to winning the open Black Belt Kata in Mumbai, Illukkumbure also won the under-19. Black Belt Kumite event. Illukkumbure started karate in the year 2000 (year 4) and has performed well at all schools and open tournaments. He first won the 'Black Belt' in the year 2006. He was also the All Island National Champion in Cadet Kumite Black Belt category in 2008.

Outstanding Sportsman

Meanwhile Sajeev was awarded the Most Outstanding Sportsman of the Year at S. Thomas' College for achievements in rowing and rifle shooting, Sajeev won 7 gold medals at the Rowing National which included 3 open events, namely Single Scull, Double Scull and Senior Fours.

At the 40th Royal-Thomian Regatta he won four events, 'A' Scull, Double Scull, 'B' Pair and was a member in Boat Race in record timing. He became the first person to attempt taking part in 4 events and winning all four. Sajeev was re-awarded Rowing Colours and awarded Rifle Shooting Colours too.

He came third in the ISSF Nationals 2009 in the 10 metres Air Rifle category. The meet was held at Sri Lanka Army Shooting Range in Panagoda.

The chief guest was Kumar Boralessa, a distinguished Old Thomian who has represented college at cricket.