Story of the Olympian
Pushpamali Irene Ramanayake stands out as a pioneer in Sri Lanka’s shooting sports history. Born with a natural calmness and focus, she developed a passion for precision and discipline—qualities that led her into the world of competitive shooting. At a time when few Sri Lankan women were seen in shooting sports, Pushpamali broke barriers with her steady hand and unshakeable determination.
Her dedication and talent led her to represent Sri Lanka at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, where she competed in the Women’s 10m Air Rifle event. It was a proud moment, not only for Pushpamali but for the entire nation, as she became one of the few female shooters from Sri Lanka to appear at the Olympics.
Though she didn’t reach the podium, her Olympic journey was a powerful inspiration, especially for young women aspiring to enter shooting sports. Beyond the Olympics, she represented Sri Lanka at numerous international competitions, earning respect for her consistent performances and sportsmanship.
Pushpamali Irene Ramanayake’s legacy is one of quiet strength, resilience, and national pride. She remains a trailblazer who proved that true focus can put even the smallest nations on the world stage.
