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‘I have accomplished my goals’ Yupun Abeykoon

11 Sep 2022

n, who finished fifth in the 100 m final between the world’s fastest runners in the Diamond League, spoke to The Sunday Morning Sports from Zurich after the race.  Following are excerpts of the interview:   What do you think of being among the top five sprinters in the world?  I am very pleased and happy. Reaching this final has been a goal for me since the beginning of this year. I wanted to run with the best runners in the world. I knew this race would be tough and I did the best I could. I am happy to be placed fifth in this kind of competition in which the world’s top sprinters take part, before an audience of more than 22,000 spectators. I will never forget this race.   You had a great run with Olympic Gold medalist Andre De Grasse in the next lane. Tell us about it. I knew that every player on my right was talented. It was a great experience for me, running alongside De Grasse and everyone else. I knew De Grasse was on the other side, but if I had worried about it too much I would have messed up my game. That helped me focus on the race and I did my best on my track.    What did the other players say after the race? It’s an amazing feeling, because I have now run with players whom I would have loved to have taken a photo with as a child. I came here with a lot of effort; no one brought me here. After all that hard work, I can now shake hands with those runners and congratulate them. Among these athletes, Yohan Blake is the closest to me. He speaks to me and congratulates me wherever or whenever he sees me. Everyone is close, even Akani Simbine and Prescod.   How do you feel about finishing the Diamond League season as a winner? Last year, I ran on the same track and finished ninth. I did much better this year. I am also happy about the recognition my country received thanks to all that hard work and effort. I wanted to once again show that I am one of the best in the world.   What are your future tournament expectations? The 2023 World Championships are coming, and my target is to train well and somehow reach the finals. I am also hoping to work hard for a medal at next year’s Asian Games. This is a sport where anything can change, but I will do everything with a positive attitude.    You were a newcomer not too long ago, but today you’re someone who places in these races. How do you feel about this? Yes, no one really knew me [a few years ago], but I have come far, step by step, and now they know me. I am humbled and happy. When Sri Lanka is mentioned, people usually ask where the country is located. I am happy that my country is more recognised globally thanks to everything I have achieved on the tracks. Now everyone knows that Yupun is a Sri Lankan athlete. I don’t think I’ve ever been happier.   Were you sick before the race?  About a week ago; I was only able to practise for eight days. Due to having been unwell, I only had a week of preparation.   What are your future plans? All these are dreams I had when I was a child – I am someone who pursues my passions. I got here amidst a lot of struggles and hardships. I have a lot of people around me now. I am looking forward to my journey while taking in all the criticism and help along the way.    Any words about your coaching staff? It was not easy after leaving Sri Lanka in 2016. My team has been my strength since 2019. My coach Claudio Licciardello is also a source of great strength to me. I remember it all. I sincerely thank everyone who congratulates me and wishes me well.  I have actually accomplished my goals, and I am at a place I never imagined I would be. I am happy about the affection shown to me by all Sri Lankans. I am happy about what I could do for them, and I hope to do something good next year.  


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