The famous saying, “Sport is not merely a medal to wear but a principle to live by,” embodies a valuable truth about the true spirit of sports. The purpose of sport is not only to achieve glorious victories; rather, it serves as a pathway to better health, physical well-being, and joy shared in unity with friends. Moreover, sport becomes a foundation for fostering respect, discipline, resilience, and moral values.
When victory and medals become the sole focus, the absence of such achievements can lead to disappointment. However, when sport is pursued as a principle, even in the absence of medals, it cultivates respect and life-enhancing virtues. Every athlete should therefore remember that the true value of sport lies not in medals, but in the noble principles that build one’s character.
A Young Girl Who Upheld the Spirit of Sports and Brought Glory to the Nation
Today, I am privileged to share with the world the exceptional achievement of a young girl who embraced sport as a principle and brought honor to the nation through her unwavering efforts. She is Enara Punchibanda, a remarkable young athlete.
At a recent karate championship held at the Dadella Indoor Stadium in Galle, she not only won the gold medal in the Kata event but also earned the title of the most outstanding athlete in the entire competition. Her extraordinary performance deserves to be celebrated globally.
Enara, daughter of a teacher at Hatton Sripada National School, inherited her athletic talents from her father—a former national-level karateka who represented Sri Lanka. Today, Enara showcases to the world the legacy passed down to her. Her mother, Roshani Fernando, a long-serving teacher, has been deeply committed to the education and sports development of both Enara and her siblings. Enara’s younger brother is also a national-level karate athlete. The support from her family has been a powerful foundation for her journey in sports.
An Early Start and Humble Pride
Enara began practicing karate at a very young age. She takes humble pride in being recognized as the best athlete in the Central Province after 23 years, and also in her ability to dominate multiple provinces through her talent. Reflecting on her journey, she shared how her father used to carry her on his shoulders at just three years old to karate classes—and since then, he has been both her mentor and coach.
She won her first gold medal at the age of four. Since then, she has claimed gold, silver, and bronze medals at various competitions including:
- All-Island Junior School Championships
- Sri Lanka Karate Federation Tournaments
- National Championships under the Department of Education
- In 2024, she won gold at the All-Island National School Karate Championships held in Kilinochchi.
She also earned her black belt diploma from the mother organization in Osaka, Japan, and secured medals at the Kunibakai National Championship there.
Lessons From Victory and Defeat
Throughout her journey, Enara has often reminded herself that both victories and defeats are experiences that shape her life. She spoke of overcoming challenges and obstacles during tournaments, enduring mentally and emotionally, and persevering with strength gained from the constant support of her parents.
Her dedication to both education and sport reflects her desire to develop not just physical strength but also mental resilience. Despite moments of heartbreak, tears, and emotional setbacks, her parents’ unwavering encouragement empowered her to endure and succeed.
Gratitude and Future Aspirations
Enara expressed heartfelt thanks to her parents, beloved teachers, and everyone who supported her along the way. She hopes that anyone—regardless of their background—who shows talent in any sport or field will be recognized without bias and given the opportunity to realize their potential without being discouraged or pressured to give up.
She stressed that selection for national representation should not be based on race, caste, religion, or any form of discrimination, but on merit and dedication. She saluted all those who make sacrifices for the development of the nation.
Looking ahead, Enara’s dream is to bring international medals to Sri Lanka in karate and raise the nation’s flag high on the global stage. If you are in a position to support her, let the day Enara conquers the world be a moment for you to proudly celebrate her achievements. Your help for such exceptionally talented children will always be a blessing for their journey.
By: P.M. Sandali Sathsarani Rathnayaka
Department of Mass Communication
University of Kelaniya
