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Strengthening Ties Through Sport: China Donates Five Dragon Boats to Sri Lanka

Published

3 weeks ago

June 1, 2025

Editor

The People’s Republic of China has donated five dragon boats worth LKR 5 million to Sri Lanka, marking a significant step in promoting water sports across the island.

The donation was made during the China-Sri Lanka Friendship Dragon Boat Championship, organized by NACKSL – the National Association of Canoeing and Kayaking Sri Lanka, held on May 31 at the Diyawanna Rowing Center. The championship saw the participation of 25 teams from various regions of the country.

The event was graced by:

Minister of Youth and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamagedara
Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Eranga Gunasekara
Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong

Trophies and certificates were awarded to the winning athletes, and the official handover of the dragon boats was completed at the same event.

A Symbol of Friendship and Cultural Exchange

Minister Gamagedara emphasized that the China-Sri Lanka Dragon Boat Championship, and the donation of dragon boats, symbolize the strong cultural, sporting, and diplomatic ties between the two nations. He extended his gratitude to the Chinese Embassy and stated that this generous gift would be instrumental in expanding and developing water sports across Sri Lanka.

“From North to South and East to West, we are committed to promoting water sports across the country,” said the Minister.

He further noted that this donation would help create pathways for Sri Lankan youth in canoeing, kayaking, and dragon boat racing, while also boosting sports tourism.

Celebrating Unity and National Inclusion

Special appreciation was extended to student participants from schools in Jaffna, highlighting the championship’s role in fostering national unity and showcasing the talent and commitment of young athletes from all regions.

The Deputy Minister also expressed hope that more youth with exceptional talent in water sports would be provided with sports scholarships in the future.

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Kingswood College Claims Hard-Fought Win Over Zahira in Week 3 of Schools Rugby League

Published

53 minutes ago

June 24, 2025

Editor

Colombo – June 23:
Kingswood College, Kandy, came from behind to secure a gritty 27-18 victory over Zahira College, Colombo, in a Week 3 clash of the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025 played at Zahira College Grounds.

Despite trailing 11-10 at halftime, Kingswood regrouped and powered through in the second half, scoring 3 tries, 3 conversions, and 2 penalties to take home the win. Zahira fought valiantly with 2 tries, 1 conversion, and 2 penalties, but couldn’t match Kingswood’s consistency in the closing stages.

This win marks an important step for Kingswood in their league journey as they eye a stronger position in the 2025 standings.

Full-Time Score:
Kingswood College 27 (3T, 3C, 2P)
Zahira College 18 (2T, 1C, 2P)

📍 Venue: Zahira College Grounds, Colombo
📅 Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025 – Week 3

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S. Thomas’ College Overpowers Mahanama in High-Scoring Rugby Battle – 50-35 Victory at Ratmalana

Published

1 hour ago

June 24, 2025

Editor

Colombo – June 23:
In a thrilling Week 3 encounter of the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025, S. Thomas’ College, Mt. Lavinia, showcased attacking brilliance to defeat Mahanama College by 50 points to 35 at the Ratmalana Air Force Grounds.

The Thomians dominated early, taking a 26-14 lead at halftime, and continued their momentum into the second half, finishing with 7 tries, 6 conversions, and a penalty to seal the win. Mahanama College put up a strong fight, scoring 5 tries and converting all 5, but couldn’t close the gap in the second half.

This match marks a significant step for S. Thomas’ in the league standings as they aim to continue their campaign with confidence and consistency.

Full-Time Score:
S. Thomas’ College 50 (7T, 6C, 1P)
Mahanama College 35 (5T, 5C)

📍 Venue: Ratmalana Air Force Grounds
📅 Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025 – Week 3

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Trinity College Storms to Victory Over Thurstan in Dialog Schools Rugby League Week 3

Published

3 days ago

June 20, 2025

Editor

Colombo, June 19 – Trinity College, Kandy delivered a commanding performance to defeat Thurstan College, Colombo by 48-19 in a high-energy Week 3 clash of the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2024, played at the Sugathadasa Stadium.

Trinity dominated throughout the match, crossing the try line eight times and securing four conversions. Their relentless attack and solid defensive play left little room for Thurstan to recover.

🏆 Match Summary – Trinity 48 (8T, 4C) vs Thurstan 19 (3T, 2C)

Trinity College Scorers:
🔹 8 Tries
🔹 4 Conversions
Thurstan College Scorers:
🔹 3 Tries
🔹 2 Conversions

The game showcased Trinity’s physical strength, quick ball movement, and tactical excellence. Even as Thurstan fought back with three well-earned tries, the gap was too wide to close.