Lahiru Achintha from Aloysius College, Rathnapura brought pride to the nation by winning the gold medal in the men’s 1500-metre event on the opening day (23) of the 3rd Asian Youth Games, held in Bahrain.

Achintha completed the race in 3 minutes and 57.42 seconds, becoming the first Sri Lankan athlete to win a gold medal at the Asian Youth Games. The silver medal went to China, while Hong Kong, China, claimed the bronze. Lahiru Achintha is also scheduled to compete in the 3000-metre event later in the tournament.

Meanwhile, in the women’s 1500-metre event, St. Andrew’s College, Puttalam athlete Nethmi Gimhani secured the bronze medal, adding another proud moment for Sri Lanka.