Dissanayaka Mudiyanselage Tharushi Dilsara Karunaratne, born on November 18, 2004, is rapidly making a name for herself in the world of track and field athletics, particularly in the 800 meters sprint. Hailing from Sri Lanka, her recent accomplishments have not only brought her personal glory but have also elevated Sri Lankan athletics on the international stage.
Karunaratne’s journey in athletics began modestly, with participation in the 100m and 200m events at her rural school’s Inter-House Meet. It was her first coach, Pushpa Kumudini, who recognized her potential and encouraged her to pursue the sport seriously. As she transitioned to circuit meets, her talent became increasingly evident.
Her breakthrough came when she enrolled at A. Rathnayake Central in Walala on a sports scholarship. There, she was part of the 4 × 400 m relay team that clinched victory at the All-Island School Games in 2018, setting a new record. Individually, she secured a bronze medal in the 800m at the Junior Nationals that same year, marking her as a rising star in Sri Lankan athletics.
By 2020, at just 15 years old, Karunaratne made headlines by dominating the All-Island School Games, setting new records in both the 400m and 800m races in the Under-16 Girls category. Her remarkable performances, including personal bests of 56.54 seconds in the 400m and 2 minutes 14.00 seconds in the 800m, surpassed even older age group winners.
The following years saw Karunaratne’s star continue to ascend. In 2019, she shattered the 800m record at the Sir John Tarbat Meet, setting a new benchmark of 2:17.00. Her prowess was further demonstrated in June 2023 when she clinched gold in the 800m at the Asian Under 20 Junior Athletic Championships in Yecheon, South Korea, adding to her growing list of achievements.
However, it was her performance at the 2023 Asian Athletics Championships in Bangkok that truly solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of athletics. Karunaratne not only secured gold in the women’s 800m event but also shattered a 25-year-old Asian record in the process, with a blistering time of 2:00:06.
Her crowning moment came at the 2022 Asian Games, where she made history by becoming the first Sri Lankan since Susanthika Jayasinghe and Damayanthi Dharsha to claim a gold medal in athletics. Competing in the women’s 800m event, Karunaratne emerged victorious with a time of 2:03.20, marking a significant milestone for Sri Lankan athletics after 21 years.
Karunaratne’s achievements extend beyond individual success. She was also a crucial member of the women’s 4 × 400 metres relay team that secured bronze at the 2022 Asian Games, showcasing her versatility and contribution to team efforts.
As she continues to carve her path in athletics, Tharushi Dilsara Karunaratne stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes in Sri Lanka and beyond. With her determination, talent, and unwavering dedication, she has proven herself to be a true champion on the track and a symbol of pride for her nation.
