W.K. SARATHCHANDRA

A Pillar of Strength and Dedication in the Ring

W.K. Sarathchandra’s journey in boxing stands as a testament to courage, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of a true soldier-athlete. His entry into the boxing arena began in 1981, when he joined the Sri Lanka Artillery Regiment, marking the start of a distinguished career that would span over a decade of excellence in the sport. In 1982, Sarathchandra quickly proved his potential by winning the ABA Novices, Intermediate, and Army Novices Championships – a rare and remarkable triple achievement that firmly established him as a rising star in Sri Lankan boxing.

From there, his dominance only grew. Between 1983 and 1989, he won the Army Boxing Championship an outstanding five times, competing in the 140 kg weight category. His consistency and discipline made him a formidable figure within the Army’s sporting ranks. Sarathchandra’s talent shone beyond military competition. He clinched victories in some of the nation’s most prestigious tournaments, including the Layton Cup, Clifford Cup, and National Boxing Championships from 1985 to 1992, showcasing exceptional skill and endurance over many years.

In 1988, he captured the Defence Services Boxing Championship, further solidifying his reputation as one of the leading heavyweight boxers of his era. His achievements were not confined to national borders Sarathchandra proudly represented Sri Lanka at the 1991 SAF Games, where he earned a bronze medal, displaying remarkable resilience despite sustaining an injury during the competition. Adding to his international experience, he toured India for the Nehru Cup Boxing Tournament, carrying the Sri Lankan flag with pride. Later, he continued to serve the sport beyond the ring by contributing as an Assistant Coach with the Sri Lanka Army Boxing Team in Bangalore, India. Through his journey, W.K. Sarathchandra embodied the true spirit of a champion blending strength with discipline, and achievement with humility. His contributions, both as a boxer and a mentor, have left an enduring mark on the legacy of Sri Lankan boxing.