A special commemorative postage stamp has been issued in recognition of the late Ranatunge Karunananda, a renowned Sri Lankan athlete who gained international fame for his determination and perseverance at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.

The stamp was officially issued on Tuesday (20) at the Ministry of Mass Media under the aegis of Minister of Health and Mass Media Nalinda Jayatissa with the aim of preserving Sri Lanka’s sporting heritage and inspiring future generations.

Karunananda gained worldwide recognition during the 10,000-metre race at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, when he continued running until the finish despite all other competitors having completed the race.

His determination earned him the title ‘Courageous Loser,’ making him a symbol of perseverance and sportsmanship.

Speaking at the event, Minister Jayatissa said that the commemorative stamp was not merely a tribute to an individual, but also a recognition of the values of determination, discipline, and mental strength demonstrated by the legendary athlete.

The Minister also highlighted that Karunananda’s inspiring story had been featured in Japanese school textbooks, reflecting the lasting impact of his achievements beyond Sri Lanka.

Born on 21 May 1936 in Kandy, Karunananda studied at Jinaraja Boys’ College in Gampola and Ampitiya Maha Vidyalaya before representing the Army’s Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers in athletics at national and international levels. The long-distance runner died aged 38 on 15 December 1974 under tragic circumstances. 

The commemorative stamp issuance ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Mass Media Dr. Kaushalya Ariyarathne, Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Akio Isomata, senior postal officials, and members of Karunananda’s family.