By Saroj Pathirana BBC Sinhala Service

	Mr. Malagamuwa says authorities are reluctant to recognise his achievements

The Sri Lankan motor racing star based in Japan grabbed the headlines by coming second in Asian GT 4 Championships in China on 19 April.

Mr. Malagamuwa finished second in his new Aston Martin in the Asian GT 4 Championships at the Shanghai Formula one track in China on 19 April.

His impressive track record includes finishing seventh in round three of the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia held in Shanghai on the same day.

Impressive track record

He has the distinction of being the only player ever to record consecutive victories in the Malaysian Super Series.

He was also the first foreign national to win the Malaysian Super Series in 2006.

Speaking with BBC Sandeshaya from Japan, Mr. Malagamuwa said he was very happy to bring credit to Sri Lanka.

Mr. Malagamuwa is the only Sri Lanka to achieve international success in motor racing

"I get lot of support from Sri Lankan fans but unfortunately no help whatsoever from Sri Lankan sports authorities," he said.

Sports editor of Daily Mirror, Channaka de Silva, has covered Asian GT 4 and Porsche Carrera Cup Asia in China.

Many other countries have taken steps to capitalize from the achievements of their countrymen, he says.

Capitalizing from sport

"The Indonesian foreign Ministry has sponsored a woman race driver, (which itself is a rare occurrence in a sport usually dominated by men), arguing that her achievement would help raise the country's image," Channaka de Silva said.

	Minister says Mr. Malagamuwa has to inform his schedule to authorities

President of Sri Lanka Motor Racing Association (SLMRA), Mahen Thambaiah, wanted him to send his racing schedules prior to the events, Mr. Malagamuwa said.

Sports minister Gamini Lokuge agreed with Mr. Thambiah’s argument.

Mr Malagamuwa does not represent Sri Lanka though he displays a Sri Lanka banner, says the minisrer.

"However, we will be very happy to help him if a request is made," Minister Lokuge told BBC Sinhala Service.

Future plans

The minister added that he has helped Mr. Malagamuwa whenever a request was made since he became the minister.

The racing star is of the opinion that it is the responsibility of the ministry and the SLMRA to offer a helping hand.

The Indonesian foreign Ministry has sponsored a woman race driver, arguing that her achievement would help raise the country's image Daily Mirror sports editor, Channaka de Silva

"I don't think cricketers or athletes approach the respective boards asking for help. Actually it is the other way round," Dilantha Malagamuwa said.

The senior sports journalist, Channaka de Silva, agrees.

"Having covered sports for nearly two decades, I have seen what politicians are up to. They will always find excuses than trying to make something happen," he said.

Dilantha Malagamuwa says he is not deterred by the “ignorant” attitude of Sri Lankan authorities.

"I have about two races every month. I am competing in 41 races this year,” the motor racing star added.