Excitement awaits at 54th Royal-Thomian Regatta on Beira Lake today
Janava de Saram - S. Thomas’ captain
Royal College will look to retain their supremacy on the waters when they face arch-rivals S. Thomas’ College, at the 54th Royal-Thomian Regatta, at the Colombo Rowing Club today. The regatta, jointly organised by the two schools, promises another thrilling chapter in Sri Lanka’s oldest inter-school rowing rivalry.
After reclaiming the overall trophy last year with a commanding 44-8 victory, Royal will enter this year’s contest with confidence and depth, under the leadership of captain Thevinu Weligepolage and vice-captain Saadh Ajmal. S. Thomas’, led by captain Janava de Saram and vice-captain Cayden Perera, are determined to reclaim the trophy they last held in 2023. Coached by an experienced staff, the Thomian rowers have placed emphasis on synchronisation and endurance, hoping to turn the tide against their rivals.
Thevinu Weligapolage - Royal captain
The Royal-Thomian Regatta began as a single Boat Racein 1962, won by Royal, who became the first holders of the Crossed Oars Trophy. It evolved into a full-scale regatta in 1966, with six events including single sculls, coxless pairs, and coxed fours across senior and junior divisions. The overall champions are awarded the T. Noel Fernando Memorial Trophy.
Royal has long been a pioneer in school rowing, launching their programme in 1953, while the rivalry has become a defining event in the sport’s local calendar. Despite interruptions — including a seven-year break between 1973 and 1979, cancellations in 2006, and during the Covid-19 pandemic — the regatta remains a symbol of tradition and sportsmanship.
Royal has dominated several eras of the regatta’s history. Their 2007 whitewash (40-0) remains unmatched, and their five consecutive victories from 2015 to 2019 set the benchmark for consistency.
After S. Thomas’ enjoyed back-to-back wins in 2022 and 2023, Royal regained the trophy in 2024, signaling a strong comeback. This year, with a balanced squad featuring seasoned oarsmen and young prospects, the defending champions aim to continue their resurgence.
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