Mixed Martial Art introduced for the first time in Navy

Introducing one of the fastest growing sport in the world, a Mixed Martial Art demonstration was held at the Admiral Somathilake Dissanayake Auditorium, SLNS Parakrama yesterday (16).

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne graced this significant occasion as the Chief Guest. The Guest of Honour of the occasion was ‘Sifu’ Prasanna Jayaweera, who is the pioneer of introducing Wushu to Sri Lanka in 1975, founder president of Sri Lanka Wushu Federation, International Judge and Referee - People's Republic of China and Chief Instructor of Chinese Unarmed Military Training Academy.

The event marked the very first instant where this martial art discipline was introduced to the Sri Lanka Navy. During the event, seven personnel from the Special Boat Squadron who mastered this discipline in short period of time presented their array of skills in front of a cheering audience.  

The 7 SBS martial artists were trained by Mr. Duminda Perera, Senior Instructor Sri Lanka Wushu Federation and he was well assisted by Commander Chatura Gamage. The untiring efforts of the coaches immensely helped the SLN martial artists to raise their skill level in short span of time. The martial artists displayed wide range of martial art styles including, Tai Chi Chuan, Tai Chi Jian, Chang Chuan, Nan Chuan, Nando (Sword Play), Wing Chun, Gun Shu (Stick Play) and Sanda (Sparring).

On completion of fine display of martial arts disciplines the Commander of the Navy gave away certificates to the SBS martial artists in recognition of their excellent performances.