The National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka is one of the first NOCs in Asia to be affiliated to the International Olympic Committee having started this strong relationship in 1937. As we embark on our ninth decade, it is with a deep feeling of humility that I take on the mantle of leadership.

The past eight decades have ushered in many changes to Sri Lanka, and indeed the rest of the world. We live today in a rapidly changing environment driven by technology and the Internet of Things and one of our main challenges is to keep alive the ideals of humanity. Sports plays an important role in this aspect and we are constantly reminded of this by the Olympic movement where the pursuit of excellence and the triumph of human will remain paramount.

Sri Lanka has a small but proud history in the sporting world having made its mark at all levels including the Olympics through our athletes like Susanthika Jayasinghe (2000 Sydney Olympics) and before that Duncan White (1948 London Olympics). At the Asian level, our athletes have won a total of 46 medals in eight sports including 11 gold medals from the past 17 Asian Games.

This success is more due to the talent and determination of individuals rather than a product of the system. This is what must be addressed as we face the future – Change for Good – put in place a system which will help develop and nurture young talent to be medal winners. We have the talent. It is now up to all the National Sports Federations to provide an environment where success can be forged. As the governing body, the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka, will work hand-in-hand and provide every assistance to its partners as we strive to make our presence felt more strongly on the world stage.

I pay tribute to my predecessors and pledge afresh my commitment to the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka as we strive to go faster, higher and stronger.

Suresh Subramaniam
President / NOC Sri Lanka