(President-CFSL)
Idon’t think we were able to obtain the desired results in Cycling during the last two years. But, overall, there has been an improvement in the Sport. There have been various criticisms from those who are directly and indirectly involved in the promotion of Cycling in SL. I can confirm that we are currently considered a major force in the South Asian region. This was very clear, considering the fact that, we won 2 Gold medals, 2 Silver medals and 3 Bronze medals at the South Asian Games in 2016. We were only second to India in the overall standings. In addition, our Jeevan Jayasinghe is the best sprinter in the South Asian region. This was the first time that SL had won an award of this nature. I think we are currently maintaining a very good standard in the Sport. However, I must state that, we have decided to reduced the amount of participation at international events, to reduce the cost for the CFSL and the Government.
In the past, we have experienced many competitors returning without participating at international competitions, while others have taken this opportunity to stay behind in that country, after participating. These incidents have tarnished SL's image, while it is an added concern to the authorities. As a result, we have decided against sending Cyclists to some top Asian and European countries.
We have decided to revive the Tour de Lanka race after a lapse of 20 years, and will definitely conduct it this year. I am now having discussions regarding this event with a good sponsor, and have the backing of the Government as well. We are in the process of finalising the dates for this event.
We conducted a total of 28 Open races in 2016, but could not conduct the National championships. Instead, we conducted a good Club tournament. We are aware that we cannot replace a national championship with a club event. Our main goal is to develop the Sport in the country. We are now conducting events at National level and at inter-house school level. The authorities have also allocated a special Cycling tracks alongside the main road in Kohuwela and Piliyandala. This is a big victory for the CFSL as well as for the riders.