Sumith Liyanage, an iconic figure in Sri Lankan sports history, celebrated his 88th birthday on Monday (24). Known for his remarkable boxing career, he boasts of sharing the ring with the legendary Cassius Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali, during the 1960 Rome Olympics.
Sumith Mohandas Pitigala Liyanage was born into a family with a rich tradition of boxing. He attended Ananda College for his primary education, where he discovered his passion for the sport. His involvement in boxing began at the tender age of 14, inspired by the success of the boxing team at St. Sylvester’s College, Kandy.
Despite facing an early setback when he lost to Annesley Soysa at the Stubbs Shield meet in 1952, Liyanage’s resolve to excel in boxing only grew stronger. His move to Nalanda College in 1953 marked a turning point. Under the mentorship of legendary boxing coach D.C.A. Wickremasinghe and with the encouragement of his peers, he quickly rose through the ranks, winning the Stubbs Shield from 1955 to 1957 and several other championships during his time at Nalanda.
Liyanage’s prowess in the ring earned him the nickname ‘Black Panther’ due to his dusky complexion and panther-like movements. He dominated the national boxing scene, becoming the Sri Lanka National Featherweight Champion in 1960. This victory earned him a coveted spot in the Rome Olympic Games. His style and skill in the ring were reminiscent of Floyd Patterson, the former World Heavyweight Boxing Champion, earning him further acclaim.
The pinnacle of Liyanage’s boxing career was his participation in the 1960 Rome Olympics. Missing the 1956 Melbourne Olympics despite being a frontrunner for selection only fuelled his determination. Alongside his fellow Deputy Inspector General (DIG) and exemplary law enforcement officer Dharmasiri Weerakoon, Liyanage set his sights on Rome.
In Rome, the Olympic draw placed Liyanage against the formidable Jerzy Adamski of Poland, the reigning two-time European champion, in the featherweight category. Undeterred by Adamski’s credentials, Liyanage fought valiantly, flooring Adamski with a powerful left jab followed by a right cross in the first round. Despite this strong start, Adamski’s experience helped him mount a comeback, narrowly winning on points. Adamski went on to win the Silver medal, underscoring the high level of competition Liyanage faced.
One of Liyanage’s most cherished memories from the Olympics was his interaction with Clay, who later became the legendary Muhammad Ali. The Sri Lankan and American teams shared accommodations, fostering camaraderie between the athletes. Liyanage fondly recalls Clay’s confidence, charisma, and friendliness. He even had the privilege of watching Clay’s bouts from ringside, witnessing first-hand Clay’s journey to winning the light heavyweight Gold medal.
After his illustrious boxing career, Liyanage continued to serve his country with distinction as a law enforcement officer, rising to the rank of DIG in the Sri Lanka Police. His dedication to public service paralleled his commitment to sports, earning him respect and admiration in both fields.
Liyanage’s competitive spirit extended beyond boxing. He found success in pistol shooting, winning a Silver medal at the 2007 World Police and Fire Games in Adelaide, South Australia. His contributions to sports continued as he managed the Sri Lanka team in several international competitions, including the 1993 SAF Games in Bangladesh and the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Vancouver, Canada, where his team members won medals.
Liyanage’s legacy as Sri Lanka’s oldest living Olympian is a testament to his dedication, discipline, and passion for sports. His achievements in boxing and his exemplary service in the Police force have made him a national icon. His story is one of resilience and determination, inspiring future generations of athletes to pursue their dreams with unwavering commitment.
Reflecting on his journey, Liyanage emphasises the importance of discipline and hard work. He attributes his longevity and fitness to his disciplined lifestyle, which included abstaining from smoking and dedicating himself to rigorous training. His advice to aspiring Olympians is to set clear goals and work tirelessly towards them, embodying the spirit of perseverance and dedication.
Liyanage’s life and career are marked by milestones that few can claim. From sharing the ring with Ali to becoming Sri Lanka’s oldest living Olympian, his story is filled with unforgettable memories and remarkable achievements. As the world gears up for the Paris Olympics in 2024, Liyanage continues to inspire with his timeless wisdom and enduring legacy, reminding us all that ‘the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams’.