Yupun’s gesture appreciated as the sprinter conducts workshop for youngsters

by Reemus Fernando

Sprint coach Sanjeewa Weerakkody appreciated Yupun Abeykoon’s efforts to enhance the knowledge on techniques of up and coming sprinters in Sri Lanka as South Asia’s fastest sprinter conducted a workshop for budding athletes at the Sugathadasa Stadium on Friday.

“His presence will be an inspiration to emerging sprinters. We must be thankful for sharing his expertise,” said Weerakkody in an interview with The Sunday Island on the sidelines of Yupun’s workshop.

Weerakkody, the coach of Sri Lanka’s national champions in both the men’s and women’s 100 metres was among a handful of coaches following Abeykoon’s “Train With Yupun” workshop.

The workshop was conducted to educate the young athletes on important aspects in sprinting.While sharing his ideas on running technique, nutrition and recovery the Commonwealth Games medallist also demonstrated sprint drills. Some four dozen athletes who had applied online for the workshop attended the more than two hour long session.

Abeykoon, who became the first South Asian athlete to produce sub 10 seconds in the 100 metres has been involved in a number of events educating the fans, fellow athletes and the sports hierarchy on his achievements during his short stay.

The Italy based athlete will return to his training base to start training for the next season where he is a medal prospect at a number of Asian events including the Asian Games.The 100 metres national record holder is the fastest athlete in Asia in the 100 metres this year and is expected to achieve podium places at both the Asian Athletics Championships and the Asian Games in 2023.