He flagged off the race at the starting point in Makola this morning. A large number of licensed top grade and under 23 road race competitors including cyclists representing army, navy, airforce and police took part in the race. The open race is held from Makola to kiribathgoda in two laps and covers a distance of 144km.

State Minister Wijewardene presented certificates and trophies to the winners at the end of the race. Lance Corporal Thushan Rajapaksha of the Sri Lanka Army clinched the championship trophy. Leading Aircraftman Nidush Nirantha and Leading Aircraftman Jeewan Jayasinghe of the Airforce came second and third respectively.

The State Minister also presented cash prizes of Rs. 150,000.00 to the winner and Rs. 100,000.00 and Rs. 75000.00 to the second and third placed competitors. Consolation prizes were also presented to the first 15 finalists.