The first ever Elle tournament outside Sri Lanka was organised by Athula Dassana multi Cultural Buddhist community centre on 22/09/2012 at Little Harlington grounds Heathrow. The Chief organiser of the event was Venerable Wanduraba Kassapa thero who is the chief incumbent of the Athula Dassana International Buddhist temple. The event concluded with huge success with support of all Sri Lankan residents in and around London.
The chief guest of the event was Dr Chris Nonis the high commissioner of Sri Lanka. In addition Deputy High Commissioner Mr M.R.K Lenagala and Head of Education and Cultural Ministry to the High Commission Mr H.M.K Herath were guests at the festival. The High commissioner specifically commented on the importance of events of this nature which promoted a national game which is peculiar to Sri Lanka and also promoted peace and unity amongst Sri Lankan people who live outside the country. He also mentioned that it is equally important that we portray Sri Lankan people as a civilised, respected community to the world. The special feature of the event was that it was open to all religious communities without prejudice.
Elle bats and balls were specially made and provided by the Chairman of Sri Lanka Youth Mr Piyum Perera and Secretary of Elle Federation Sri Lanka Mr Siripala who went out of their way to assist the organisers to make this event a success. Mr Bandara Wekadapola who is a former Sri Lankan police rugby player and rugby referee of London society organised and managed the tournament on the day. 10 teams participated. “Edgware Kids” became champions; the runners-up were “Sri Lanka Eksath” they no doubt would make history as first winners of and participants of London Elle festival
The main sponsors of the event were ‘VMD Solicitors’, ‘Thilina’ Sri Lanka Money exchange and ‘Atlas’ Shipping. Media coverage for the event was provided by News Lanka, Sesatha, Ceylon radio Desawan radio. The support provided by all organisations, members of the committee and devotees of the temple which consisted of more than 300 Sri Lankans were very much appreciated by Ven Wanduramba Kasspa thero. We hope that the support given for this event will continue in promoting Sri Lankan traditional events in London in future.
