W.G. Cooray
- (The Timeless Journey of a True Gentleman in the Ring) For over half
century, Warnakulasooriyage Gnapala Cooray-affectionately known as W.G. Cooray-has stood as one of Sri Lanka's most respected figures in boxing. His incredible 52-year journey is a story not just of triumphs and titles, but of deep devotion, humility, and service to a sport that became his lifelong calling. The Beginning of a Champion W.G. Cooray first laced up his gloves in 1972 at Arethusa College, Wellawatte, where he was trained by two remarkable mentors-Donald Munasinghe and Nimal Jayarathne Their guidance helped mold a spirited young athlete into a disciplined and determined competitor. His first big break came just a year later at the 1973 Clifford Cup Championship, where he finished Runner-up in the Paperweight Division-a glimpse of the champion he would soon become. The Rise to Boxing Greatness From 1974 onwards, Cooray's name became synonymous with speed, precision, and a gentleman's grace inside the ring.
- 1974-Crowned Intermediate Boxing Champion (Paperweight) and awarded Best Boxer of the tournament.
- The same year, he claimed victory at the Albert Perera Boxing Meet in his division.
- 1976-Reached the pinnacle as National Paperweight Champion, once again dominating the Albert Perera Meet.
- 1977 – Proved his supremacy by winning titles at the Clifford Cup, Layton Cup, and Albert Perera Meet.
- 1978-Retained his national form, represented Sri Lanka at the Indo-Sri Lanka Meet, and emerged Light Flyweight Champion.
- 1978-1979-Continued to shine, capturing the Layton Cup and National Championships back-to-back.
Each fight reflected not just his talent, but his unrelenting spirit and sportsmanship-qualities that earned him immense respect both inside and
outside the ring.
When his competitive days ended, Cooray's passion for the sport didn't. He turned to coaching, dedicating nearly a decade to Arethusa College, shaping future champions and inspiring discipline in young boxers. His influence extended further as he trained students at Horana Thakshila Vidyalaya, Medankara Vidyalaya (Horana), and Sripali Vidyalaya, leaving behind a trail of disciplined, well-rounded athletes. Even after stepping away from coaching, his heart remained in the ring. For the past 25 years, he has served as an Official Timekeeper, ensuring fairness and precision at major national tournaments a true guardian of the sport he loves.
Today, as W.G. Cooray marks 52 years in boxing, his story stands as a powerful reminder that greatness is not measured solely in medals or trophies-but in the impact one leaves behind. From a promising young boxer in Wellawatte to a respected mentor and official, his journey represents dedication, humility, and an unshakable love for boxing. For every young Sri Lankan stepping into a ring, W.G. Cooray's life remains an enduring example-showing that true champions are those who give back as much as they gain.