Sri Lankan long-distance runner Gamini Sugathadasa has won the gold medal in the 55–59 age category at the Boston Marathon held in the United States.
Marking his sixth appearance at the prestigious event on Monday (20), Sugathadasa completed the 42-kilometre race in an impressive time of 2 hours, 36 minutes, and 32 seconds to secure first place in his category.
This achievement is regarded as the best performance by a Sri Lankan in this age group on American soil, highlighting a significant milestone in the country’s athletics.
Sugathadasa had previously earned a bronze medal at the New York City Marathon in 2025, known for its challenging terrain.
The Boston Marathon, first held in 1897, is widely considered the world’s oldest annual marathon and one of the most demanding races globally. It is also part of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors.
More than 30,000 athletes from around the world participated in this year’s 42.195 km race.
Sugathadasa, who migrated to the United States from Sri Lanka in 1999, began his running journey later in life, around the age of 40. Inspired by watching athletes cross the finish line with medals and smiles, he developed a passion for long-distance running.
He currently works as a bellman at the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas.
