Team Sri Lanka for the 6th Asian Beach Games officially unveiled
The National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka officially introduced the national contingent for the upcoming 6th Asian Beach Games at a media briefing held in Colombo, signaling the country’s readiness for the continental event set to take place later this month.
The multi-sport beach extravaganza will be hosted in Sanya, a renowned coastal destination in China, from April 22 to April 30, 2026. The Games will open with a grand ceremony on April 22 and conclude on April 30, bringing together top athletes from across Asia in a celebration of beach and water-based sports.
Sri Lanka will field a 109-member delegation, including 77 athletes—made up of 40 men and 37 women—who are set to compete in eight sporting disciplines. The remaining members of the delegation consist of coaches, officials, and medical staff who will provide essential support throughout the competition.
The team will take part in a diverse range of sports, namely:
- Beach Athletics
- Beach Kabaddi
- Beach Handball
- Beach Volleyball
- 3×3 Basketball
- Open Water Swimming
- Beach Wrestling
- Sailing
In a message shared ahead of today’s event, President of NOC Sri Lanka, Suresh Subramaniam, expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and spirit, stating, “The journey to Sanya marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for Team Sri Lanka. With 77 athletes competing in eight sports, we move forward with belief, unity, and national pride, ready to showcase the very best of Sri Lankan sport to the world. We are incredibly proud of our contingent’s dedication and hard work, and we stand firmly behind the teams as they compete with courage and determination for our nation.”
Meanwhile, Samith Thilina was formally introduced as the Chef de Mission for the Sri Lankan contingent. Bringing a diverse professional background that spans sports administration, disaster risk management, and creative design, he also plays an active role in water safety initiatives through Sri Lanka Life Saving.
Adding a creative touch to the campaign, Thilina has also designed the team’s official attire for the Games. The outfits draw inspiration from the Black Ruby Barb, a fish species native to Sri Lanka, incorporating oceanic themes that reflect the island nation’s deep connection to the sea.
The official team kit, including the attire for the Opening Ceremony, was revealed during the event, showcasing a blend of cultural identity and modern aesthetics.
For the Opening Ceremony, Sri Lanka’s flag will be carried by two promising athletes: Lakshika Sugandhi and Haren Dineth Wickramatillake. Sugandhi is set to compete in the Women’s 60m and 4x60m events in Beach Athletics, while Wickramatillake will represent the nation in Sailing under the Optimist Boys category.
The press conference was attended by Ms. Niloo Jayathilake, Vice President of NOC Sri Lanka and Chairperson of the Games Committee of NOC Sri Lanka; Mr. Rifdy Fahmy, Secretary General of NOC Sri Lanka; Mr. S. Achchuthan, Director General of Sports at the Department of Sports Development of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports; Mr. Shirantha Peries, Vice President of NOC Sri Lanka; Mr. Asanka Aryachandra, Executive Board Member of NOC Sri Lanka; and Mr. Samith Thilina, Chef de Mission of Team Sri Lanka for the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026. Representatives from each of the participating sports were also present.
With preparations complete and anticipation building, Team Sri Lanka now turns its focus toward delivering strong performances and making a mark at the Asian Beach Games in Sanya.
