The fourth Open Archery Championship concluded yesterday (8) marking its return after a four-year hiatus.

The event saw participation from 10 sports clubs and featured 29 events with 311 athletes competing. Teams from the Air Force, Navy, Police, other prominent sports clubs, and leading schools in Colombo took part in the competition.

Deputy Sports Minister Sugath Thilakaratne presided over the award ceremony, distributing medals and certificates to the winners. President of the Sri Lanka Archery Association, Nishantha Herath, along with other dignitaries, also attended the event.

Addressing the gathering, Thilakaratne expressed optimism about the future of sports in Sri Lanka. He noted that the government is committed to resolving longstanding issues in sports clubs and overcoming the political influences that have hindered progress.

“We must elevate our sports to a national level. The stagnation ends here. While past challenges existed, it’s time to bring change—not just in the country but in our sports as well,” he said.

He also emphasized plans to advance archery and shooting sports, aiming for Sri Lankan representation at the 2028 Olympics.