Ikram Odayar
Ikram Odayar, one of Sri Lanka's most talented schoolboy boxers of the early 1980s. Representing Trinity College, Kandy, Ikram demonstrated exceptional skill, commitment, and fighting spirit from an extraordinarily young age, earning recognition at school levels.
Ikram's rapid ascent in the world of amateur boxing began in 1980 when he clinched the Gold Medal at the L.V. Jayaweera Meet, marking the arrival of a remarkable young athlete destined for greatness. His momentum continued into 1981-a. defining year in his career-where he emerged as:
- Gold Medalist T.B. Jayah Meet (1981)
- Gold Medalist – Stubbs Shield Meet (1981)
- Winner of the prestigious T.Y. Wright Challenge Cup (1981) for the Best Boxer in the Senior Category at the Stubbs Shield Meet
To achieve such honours at just 15 years of age, Ikram was also awarded the highly respected Trinity Boxing Lion (1981)-one of Trinity College’s most elite sporting distinctions.
Ikram's excellence carried through the subsequent years:
- 1982: Runner-up at the Stubbs Shield Meet and recipient of the Best Loser Award, acknowledging his technical brilliance and fighting spirit despite the final outcome.
- 1983: Returned even stronger to become Gold Medalist at the Stubbs Shield Meet, and a key member of the Champion Trinity Stubbs Shield Team (1983).
Ikram's dedication and leadership were recognized beyond the ring. In 1984, he was honoured with:
- Sri Lanka Schools Boxing Colours (1984)
- Appointment as the Boxing Captain of Trinity College (1984)
These accolades reflect not only his talent, but also his discipline, mentorship, and exemplary sportsmanship.
Ikram Odayar's achievements remain a shining chapter in Sri Lankan schoolboy boxing history. His journey from a young prodigy to a nationally recognized champion continues to inspire aspiring boxers across the island.