The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in collaboration with several leading organisations in Sri Lanka, has officially launched Colombo Marathon 2026, an ambitious international sporting event aimed at establishing Colombo as Sri Lanka’s premier international city marathon.
The official launch was held on August 4 at City of Dreams Sri Lanka, bringing together government officials, sponsors, partners, and media representatives to unveil the inaugural marathon, scheduled for September 13, 2026, under the theme “Steps for Peace and Humanity.”
The launch was attended by Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage, Sugath Thilakarathne, Aruna Bandara, Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and S. Achchuthan, Director General of the Department of Sports Development.
Designed to place Sri Lanka more prominently on the global sports tourism map, Colombo Marathon 2026 aims to establish an annual international sporting platform that brings together elite athletes, local runners, and communities while showcasing Colombo as a destination capable of hosting world-class sporting events.
Inspired by leading international city marathons, the event seeks to combine sporting excellence with tourism promotion and community engagement, creating a sustainable platform that can contribute to Sri Lanka’s growing sports tourism sector.
Commenting on the launch, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage said, “Colombo Marathon 2026 marks an important milestone in our efforts to strengthen Sri Lanka’s presence in international sport. This event will create opportunities for athletes, inspire youth participation and showcase Sri Lanka as a destination capable of hosting world-class sporting events. Under the theme ‘Steps for Peace and Humanity’, the marathon represents unity, determination and collective progress.”
The Colombo Marathon 2026 has received support from several prominent organisations, including Union Assurance, Elephant House, Nations Trust Bank, City of Dreams Sri Lanka, Nestomalt, DC Group, IPG Group, and Rupavahini. Their collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is expected to contribute to delivering a professionally managed marathon that meets international standards.
Fairway Colombo Named Official Accommodation Partner of Manhunt International 2026
Fairway Colombo, a subsidiary of Fairway Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, has been appointed the Official Accommodation Partner for Manhunt International 2026, one of the world’s leading male pageants, which is scheduled to take place in Sri Lanka on September 9, 2026.
The event represents a historic milestone for Sri Lanka, as the country prepares to host a global pageant of this scale for the first time. More than 40 contestants from countries around the world are expected to arrive in Colombo, bringing together diverse cultures, international media exposure, and a global audience while further enhancing Sri Lanka’s profile as a destination for tourism, culture, and hospitality.
As the official accommodation partner, Fairway Colombo will host international delegates and contestants throughout their stay in Colombo, providing personalised service and the high-quality hospitality experience for which the hotel is recognised.
A Landmark Partnership for Sri Lankan Tourism
Commenting on the partnership, Avinga Wanigasekara, General Manager of Fairway Colombo, said, “We are truly honored to be selected as the Official Accommodation Partner for Manhunt International 2026. This partnership is a proud moment not only for Fairway Colombo but also for Sri Lanka as a whole. Hosting an event of this global stature provides us with an opportunity to showcase our commitment to smart luxury, innovation, and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality to an international audience. We look forward to creating a memorable and seamless experience for all delegates and guests.”
Located in the heart of Colombo’s historic Fort district, Fairway Colombo is positioned as a Smart Luxury Business Hotel, combining contemporary comfort, technology, and personalised service. As part of Fairway Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, the hotel reflects the group’s vision of delivering innovative and internationally competitive experiences across the hospitality and leisure sectors.
Fairway Colombo also holds the distinction of being Sri Lanka’s first hotel to introduce robot technology, highlighting its focus on innovation and smart hospitality solutions. The property features 181 contemporary rooms across eight room categories, catering to both business and leisure travellers.
Its central location provides guests with convenient access to Colombo’s key attractions, shopping destinations, restaurants, cultural landmarks, and entertainment venues, making the hotel a suitable base for international visitors exploring the city.
Colombo Marathon 2026 Sets Course to Become Sri Lanka’s Premier International City Marathon
