Aruna Dharshana bags 400 metres title in China

by Reemus Fernando

Sprinter Aruna Dharshana won the 400 metres in comprehensive ease to achieve one of the targets of his first overseas competition of the season though lack of competition denied him the opportunity to have a crack at the direct Olympic qualifying standard at the Belt and Road World Athletics Bronze label Continental Tour event in Chongqing, China yesterday.

Dharshana led from the start and remained in the lead to stop the clock at 45.48 seconds to win.

His achievement is set to improve his current standing in the ‘Road to Paris 24’ Olympic rankings.

Dharshana has a seasonal best of 45.30 seconds from March and has the potential to clock a faster time provided that he gets better competition.

The 400 metres sprinters have a direct Olympic qualifying standard of 45.00 seconds. Those who have not reached the direct qualifying standard has to be in the top 48 in the ‘Road to Paris 24’ Olympic rankings if they are to book the ticket to Paris.

Dharshana is set to compete in the 200 metres final of the same competition today.

Javelin thrower Dilhani Lekamge too will be in action today.