by Ravi Nagahawatte
Karate guru, D. Wijesiri, has quite a following.

His status in society, as a teacher of martial arts, did not come as a surprise for this village bloke from Hambantota, as he had the intention of becoming a Master in karate when in his teens.

Now residing in Colombo, Wijesiri, a 4th Dan Black belt in Shotokan karate, has built a reputation in teaching self defense techniques using the Nunchakku, Stick, and Sai.

He began learning karate under the tutelage of L. H. Dharmasena, and later joined the National Youth Services Council to pursue the learning of karate. Wijesiri received his second Dan Black belt under the supervision of Susantha Salgadu.

As he continued dabbling in the sport a desire to teach others overcame him.

That’s when he decided to form his own sports center, Red Lions Sports Club. At present there are about 500 students training under his watchful eyes.

To add to his credentials, Wijesiri was recently appointed the chief organizer for the Colombo District by the All Ceylon Karate Federation.

Eventually, he took part in a tournament organised by this federation and finished as runner-up.

According to Wijesiri, his ambition in pursuing the sport of karate will continue. He says that he hopes to go abroad to obtain a 5th Dan Black belt.

Wijesiri’s club, Red Lions Sports Club, has made plans to conduct a karate exhibition at the National Youth Services Council Maharagama, on September 23 at 4.00 pm.