Rajiva Wijetunge Wins Gold and Silver Marking Centenary Milestone with Unwavering Commitment to Athletics

STORY BY HERBERT PERERA

In an era where sporting careers are often measured in fleeting years, Masters Double International Rajiva Wijetunge stands as a testament to endurance, discipline, and lifelong dedication. This June, he achieved a remarkable personal milestone; his 100th athletics meet, where he competed at the Singapore Masters Athletics Track & Field Championships 2026 (SMTFA), held at the Home of Athletics Stadium in Kallang on the 6th and 7th.

Rajiva’s athletics journey spans over five decades, beginning in 1972 and continuing steadfastly into 2026. Few athletes sustain such longevity, and fewer still do so with the consistency and passion he has displayed. His transition into Masters athletics in 1999 marked not a slowing down, but a renewed chapter of excellence. Competing in the over-40 category, Rajiva has since secured an impressive 34 international medals for Sri Lanka Masters, underscoring both his competitive spirit and his commitment to representing his country on the global stage.

Now competing in the 65–69 age category in Shot Put and Discus Throw, Rajiva’s continued presence in international meets speaks volumes about the discipline required to maintain peak physical condition well beyond the conventional athletic prime. Training at this level demands not only physical resilience, but also mental fortitude; balancing recovery, injury prevention, and the relentless pursuit of incremental improvement.

His performances at the Singapore Masters Athletics Championships over the years reflect this sustained excellence:

Singapore Masters Athletics Championships (SMTFA) – Performance Record

• 2005: Silver (Shot Put), Gold (Discus)
• 2006: Silver (Shot Put), Bronze (Discus)
• 2007: Silver (Shot Put), Bronze (Discus)
• 2008: Gold (Shot Put), Gold (Discus)
• 2024: Silver (Shot Put), Bronze (Discus)
• 2025: Silver (Shot Put), Gold (Discus)
• 2026: Gold (Shot Put), Silver (Discus)

These achievements, spread across two decades, illustrate not just moments of success, but a sustained standard of excellence. They are the result of years of disciplined training, personal sacrifice, and an unyielding commitment to the sport.

Reaching a centenary of competitive meets is more than a numerical milestone—it is a reflection of a life shaped by perseverance. Rajiva’s journey highlights an important truth: that athletic excellence is not confined to youth, but can be a lifelong pursuit driven by passion, structure, and resilience.

Rajiva Wijetunge carries with him not only decades of experience, but also the inspiration of what it means to remain dedicated to one’s craft. His story serves as a powerful reminder that commitment, when sustained over time, can transform a sporting career into a legacy.