Dilhani stands strong despite recent tragedy

Women’s javelin thrower Dilhani Lekamge surprised many last year, winning the silver medal at the Asian Championship replicating the feat of her former training partner Nadeeka Lakmali, to emerge as one of country’s leading throwers and international medal hopes.
But, tragedy followed soon after that leaving all leading SL throwers’ futures hanging in balance including Dilhani’s as renowned throwing coach A.J. Rodrigo suddenly passed away.
Veteran coach Rodrigo was the former coach of Nadeeka Lakmali, Sachith Maduranga, Dilhani and many other leading throwers. Rodrigo sacrificed his life and wealth for the development of throwing and his private training centre and gym facilities were used by all of his athlete students.

The demise left them all devastated with Dilhani stopping her training for weeks. Just then Rodrigo’s daughter Anuradha Rodrigo encouraged Dilhani to go back to the field and Anuradha took the responsibility of coaching her following in his father’s footsteps.
The results were amazing and Dilhani set a new personal best during the trials with 58.41m to qualify for the Commonwealth Games.
“It was not easy. I decided that I won’t be training with any other coach but it was pretty hard to resume training after our Sir, Rodrigo passed away,” said an emotional Dilhani after her workout at Carrara Stadium in Gold Coast.
Dilhani said it was not easy to carry on as Rodrigo’s memory always haunted her during training and competitions.
“Memories of Rodrigo always come to my mind, especially during these kinds of competitions which isn’t easy for me,” said Dilhani.
Nevertheless, Dilhani evolved as a surprise package as she, who wasn’t one of favourite medal contender at the Asian Championship surprised many winning silver. In doing so she beat leading Indian throwers during the competition where she said she could replicate that if things go as planned.
“My event will be a direct final as there are only 12 competitors. My aim is to first get within the final 8 and then hope for the best. Based on training I think I can achieve a new mark,” said Dilhani.
Hailing from Arapola Mahinda M.V. Eheliyagoda, Dilhani has come a long way since she joined the Army back in 2006. No Sri Lankan javelin thrower has won a medal at the Commonwealth Games throughout its history. Dilhani will be eyeing to do exactly that in memory of the late A.J. Rodrigo who was a father figure for many top throwers for a very long time.