RO Badminton Academy’s inaugural Feather Championship, a resounding success
View(s):RO Badminton Academy’s first-ever Feather Badminton Championship 2026 was held at the Royal College Sports Complex on January 24 and 25. The two-day tournament attracted enthusiastic badminton players from across the island, with the participation of former national champions adding a unique energy to the event.
The occasion was graced by the presence of distinguished players, including 18-time national champion Niluka Karunaratne, national champions Niroshan Wijekoon, Kaushali Disanayake, Duminda Jayakodi, and other celebrated stars from Sri Lankan badminton history. Their involvement inspired both emerging and senior players, heating up the competitive atmosphere of the tournament.
Veteran shuttler Niluka Karunaratne in action during the competition
Matches were conducted across multiple categories, including age-based Doubles – Over-35, Over-40, Over-45, Over-50 and Over-55, Combined 90+ and 100+, and Mixed Doubles. Several finals were decided through intensely close series that went down to the wire.
Among the exciting matches that captivated the championship were the Over-35 category. The pair of Niluka Karunaratne and Charith Wijenayake clinched the championship, while Iresh de Silva and Imandha Nimalchandra secured the runners-up position. The Over-40 title was won by Niluka Karunaratne and Randika Peiris, with Thanuja Liyanage and Susil Karunaratne finishing as runners-up.
Senior players also shone as the Over-55 category was won by Clarence Homes and Duminda Somanayake. The Combine 100+ title was secured by Roshan Padmakumara and Rohan Pranandu while the Mixed Doubles title was won by Duminda Jayakodi and Priyanka Aberathna.
The organisers ensured that winners received valuable trophies, certificates, and attractive cash prizes—a move that further boosted players’ interest in badminton and raised the standard of tournaments. This championship was made possible with the support of McLerance Holdings and Mobil as the main sponsor, along with other sponsors, Sports Avenue, Dlas Skin Care, and Serene Gem.
Held with the aim of further popularising badminton and elevating its vibrancy, it was announced that the next tournament planned by RO Badminton Academy will become broader and more captivating in the future.