The 2025 edition of the Sri Lanka Inter-Schools Ritzbury Relay Championship, organized by the Sri Lanka Schools Athletics Association, concluded successfully yesterday, on April 11th. The final day was marked by a series of thrilling races and standout performances, not only from the local teams that we saw throughout the competition, but international teams too.
A notable highlight of the day was the boys’ 4x400m international relay, which featured teams from Sri Lanka, India, the Philippines, and the Maldives. This added an exciting global flair to the competition and showcased the growing international appeal of the event.
Sri Lanka was represented by three different teams, a unique and commendable feat that highlighted the growing potential of our home talents. Representing Sri Lanka was:
- Sri Lanka A: Aruna Darshana, Sadev Rajakaruna, H.D.R. Madusha, Kalinga Kumarage
- Sri Lanka B: Omel Silva, Isuru Lakshan, R.A.I. Maduranga, Pradeep Kumara
- Sri Lanka C: Dinuka Deshan, Pabasara Niku, Rajitha Rajakaruna, Isuru Bans
The Sri Lanka A team emerged victorious, clocking a time of 3:05.58 minutes to secure first place. Close behind, Sri Lanka B clinched second place, pushing India into third place, a contrast to India’s usual dominance in the region.
Furthermore, the relay competition continued successfully, with many finals being completed; the heats being held on the previous day. The champions of their respective categories are mentioned below.
Age-Group Champions by Category:
- Under-12 Girls: St. Bridget’s Convent, Colombo
- Under-12 Boys: St. Benedict’s College, Colombo
- Under-14 Girls: Kothalawala Maha Vidyalaya
- Under-14 Boys: St. Benedict’s College, Colombo
- Under-16 Girls: Walala A. Ratnayake Central College
- Under-16 Boys: Maris Stella College, Negombo
- Under-18 Girls: Walala A. Ratnayake Central College
- Under-18 Boys: Joseph Vaz College, Wennappuwa
- Under-20 Girls: Lyceum International School, Wattala
- Under-20 Boys: St. Benedict’s College, Colombo
Further, the Overall Championship Titles as as follows:
- Girls’ Overall Champions: Lyceum International School, Wattala – 130 points
- Boys’ Overall Champions: St. Benedict’s College, Colombo – 155 points
With the incredible timings run by these young athletes throughout all three action-packed days of the Relay Championship, it is clear that the future of athletics in Sri Lanka is in inspiringly capable hands. The determination, discipline, and raw talent displayed by these teams not only brought glory to their schools but also lit a promising path forward for national and international representation. Thus, more than being just a competition, this championship was a celebration of potential, for dreams extending across the finish line.
With a new generation charging ahead, Sri Lanka’s future in this sport looks brighter than ever. Conclusively, the 2025 Ritzbury Relay Championship once again proved to be one of Sri Lanka’s premier school sporting events. Stay tuned to ThePapare, Sri Lanka’s No.1 sports hub, for more updates from the world of track and field and beyond!
