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by Bernard Perera

Sri Lanka Army, Inter Unit cycling and Mountain Biking championship which was postponed twice will now be held on this Sunday at Viharamahadevi Circuit commencing 7.30 am said Capt. Nalin Pieris, Secretary of the Sri Lanka Army Cycling Committee at a Press briefing held on Wednesday at Army Engineers Regiment Auditorium, in Colombo. He also said that SLA have asked the support of the Sri Lanka Mountains Biking Association. Capt. Pieris said Army has the biggest contingent of cyclists participating in events conducted in various parts of the country.

Col. A. L. R. Wijetunge speaking on the occasion said we decided to seek assistance from the Mountain Biking Association as we felt that it is an organisation which has proved itself as a good organising sector. Though the cycling Federation to a certain extent silent with their activities we have not forgotten then. We requested their technical assistance in conducting this event. He said we need assistance from all involved in cycling for events of this nature if we are to promote this national sport.

Answering a question Amal Suriyage said there are cyclists who are unable to participate due suspensions imposed on them by the controlling body. But we have decided to allow those riders to compete here on Sunday said Suriyage.

Adding further he said cycling was a national sport, as much we want to extend this championships by including events for Boys, Girls, women and men in addition to events for army personnel. This novelty is expected to attract more spectator interest, he said.

Amal Suriyage, Chairman of Sri Lanka Mountain Biking Association said that his organisation formed nearly two years ago has won the hearts of all sport loving people. This was mainly due to our promotional programmes conducted in many parts of the country. This sport has become a tourist attraction, as such this Association got the green light from the Ministry of Sports and Tourism to go ahead with promotional programmes in various parts of the island. He said it is a pleasure to be associated with Army Cycling Committee in promoting cycling and Mountain Biking.

First three riders in each event will be awarded with Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. The biggest event for the day will be open event for racing riders (25 laps) standard event for Army personnel will cover 20 laps.

Commander of the Sri Lanka Army Lionel Balagalla will flag off the racers. The days events conclude with Commander giving away the award soon after the completion of the races.

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