More Than Medals for Priya

Eight gold medals in 2022. Another six in 2024. And seven events on the schedule this year. It's fair to say Priyantha Wickremasena doesn't do things by halves, although a half marathon is one of them!

Known simply as Priya, the dedicated runner is competing in his fifth Alice Springs Masters Games, having first made the journey to the Red Centre in 2014.

This year, he's taking on the half marathon alongside six track events, from the explosive 100m sprint to the endurance-testing 3000m. But behind his impressive medal collection is a personal story that goes far beyond the finish line.

Priya originally travelled to the Games with his late wife, Anita, whom he was married to for 26 years. After Anita passed away from breast cancer in 2024, he dedicated his performances at that year's Games to her, wearing a T-shirt bearing her photograph.

He also began raising money for breast cancer and went on to take part in the Sydney Marathon, where life had another chapter waiting for him.

It was there that he met Inga, a fellow Masters Games competitor. The couple married on 21 February this year and are now sharing the Friendly Games experience together.

And while Priya's sporting achievements are remarkable, it's his love for Alice Springs that really shines through when he talks about the Games.

"This has got so much natural charisma and camaraderie," he says. "This is not just a Masters Games; this is Alice Springs Masters Games."

For Priya, the experience is about much more than competition. It's the people, the friendships and everything Central Australia has to offer.

With plans to explore Uluru and other local attractions during their visit, Priya is making the most of his time in the Red Centre.

"People are absolutely lovely," he says. "Good food, good people, good laughs. Everyone talks to you."

It's that sense of connection that has kept him coming back for more than a decade.

And while 14 gold medals across the past two Games is certainly something to celebrate, Priya's story is a reminder that some of life's greatest achievements can't be measured in medals.

For Priya, the Friendly Games are about the people, the memories and the special place that keeps calling him back.