Saturday Apr 04, 2026
Saturday Apr 04, 2026
Wednesday, 11 March 2026 02:44 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Partnership agreement exchange between (from left) Rumesh Tharanga and LOLC Finance Director/CEO Krishan Thilekaratne, Chairman Conrad Dias, and Head of Channels Prasanna Karadagolla
LOLC Finance PLC has entered into a sponsorship partnership with national javelin sensation Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage for the period 2026–2028, Supporting his preparations for upcoming international competitions including the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics.
As part of the partnership, LOLC Finance will provide logistical support including a vehicle to facilitate his travel to training sessions, competitions, and related commitments. This initiative forms part of the company’s broader commitment to supporting Sri Lankan sporting talent and enabling athletes to compete successfully on the global stage.
Born on 21 March 2003 in Kalutara, Rumesh initially pursued cricket during his time at St. Peters College Colombo before transitioning to throwing events under the guidance of his father, a former discus and shot-put athlete. Since taking up the javelin in 2017, he has emerged as one of Sri Lanka’s most promising track and field athletes.
Rumesh first gained international recognition when he finished seventh at the 2022 World Under-20 Championships in Cali. He later began training in Australia under coaches Mike and Kelsey Barber at the Queensland Institute of Sport, further strengthening his technical and competitive development.
In 2025, Rumesh etched his name in history by becoming the first Sri Lankan javelin thrower to qualify for the finals of the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he delivered the best-ever performance by a Sri Lankan male athlete at a World Championship, finishing seventh with a throw of 84.38 metres. During the same year, he set a new national record of 86.50 metres at the Indian Open, surpassing the previous mark held by Sumeda Ranasinghe.
Currently ranked ninth in the world, Rumesh opened his 2026 season with a world leading 83.07 metres at the Perth Track Classic and secured gold at the Hobart Track Classic, further cementing his global standing.
LOLC Finance PLC Director/CEO Krishan Thilekaratne stated that supporting national sporting talent is an important aspect of the company’s commitment to national development and community empowerment. He noted that the sponsorship aims to provide Rumesh with the stability and support required to maintain his focus on training and international competition in the lead-up to the Olympic Games.
Expressing his appreciation, Rumesh Tharanga said the partnership arrives at a pivotal phase of his career. He added that such backing enables him to focus fully on training, performance, and representing Sri Lanka at the highest level of international athletics.
With preparations underway for major global competition over the next three years, Rumesh remains focused on improving consistency beyond the 85-metre mark and competing for podium finishes at leading international championships as he builds toward the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
