12th Defence Services Games concludes on successful note

The 12th Defence Services Games came to a successful end at the Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo on 24th November 2023. The event, graced by the State Minister of Defence Hon. Premitha Bandara Tennakoon as the Chief Guest, was also attended by Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera.

Athletes from the tri-forces play a crucial role in securing national and international sports accolades for the motherland. Consequently, the 12th Defence Services Games (2022/2023) served as an outstanding platform for these athletes to highlight their skills. This exposure opens doors for them to represent their nation in various national and international sporting events.

The Sri Lanka Navy achieved significant success in the 12th Defence Services Games this year, where approximately 3500 athletes from the armed forces participated. Notably, the Sri Lanka Navy emerged victorious in various categories, securing the men's championships in archery, volleyball, table tennis, wrestling, weightlifting, wushu, and baseball. Additionally, they claimed women's championships in cycling, kabaddi, weightlifting, netball, football, swimming, hockey, and wushu. Accordingly, the Navy bagged 69 gold medals, 86 silver medals and 69 bronze medals in total throughout the 12th Defence Services Games.

The closing ceremony was made colourful by a parachute display presented by the members of tri-forces as well as several other entertaining items. Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Gunaratne (Retd), Chief of Defence Staff, General Shavendra Silva, Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, officers, other ranks and athletes from the tri-services were present on this occasion.