Kiriella revives Sri Lanka Veteran Boxers Association

Dushantha Kiriella, a distinguished former Stubbs Shield Champion from Thurstan College and a devoted advocate of boxing, has taken the lead in rejuvenating the Sri Lanka Veteran Boxers Association. This initiative marks a significant step towards honouring and supporting veteran boxers in Sri Lanka, celebrating their remarkable contributions both domestically and internationally.

Recognising the enduring legacy of past boxing champions, Kiriella has assembled a revered group of former athletes to form an executive committee. This committee has received widespread endorsement for the revival of this esteemed association. The committee comprises esteemed individuals.

Major Mahinda Hettiarachchi, Secretary is a former ABA (Amateur Boxing Association) Secretary and ex-President of the Boxing Coaches Association of Sri Lanka.K.A.D. Luxman, Vice President is a distinguished boxer who represented Sri Lanka at the Asian Games.

Sumith Fonseka, Vice President is an esteemed former Vidyartha College, Kandy boxer, while Nalin Jayasinghe, Treasurer is a former Joseph Vas boxer, National Champion, and Asian Championship participant.

Additionally, the association has included esteemed past boxers such as twin brothers Jagath and Sugath Neththikumar, and W.M. Chithrananda, former St Sylvester’s College, Kandy captain Rohana Gunarathne, and Stubbs Shield Best Boxer from Trinity College, Kandy Ikram Odayar, who will serve as committee members. Their collective expertise and unwavering commitment promise to steer the association towards fulfilling its objectives.

Kiriella articulated his vision for the association, stating, “Our mission is to provide a platform for veteran boxers to reconnect, share their experiences, and continue contributing to the sport. We aspire to celebrate their accomplishments and ensure their legacy inspires future generations of Sri Lankan boxers.”

The association aims to gain affiliation with the Boxing Association of Sri Lanka.

Its inaugural event will be a gathering of past boxers scheduled for September 21, graced by prominent Sri Lankan figures and distinguished ambassadors as special invitees.

To join this organisation, all former boxers who have hung up their gloves are invited to submit their CVs to Secretary Major Mahinda Hettiarachchi at 070-4644640 / 075-9300303 or via email at slveteranboxing@gmail.com.