Sept 18, Colombo: The 91st Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Senior Athletics Championship, which unfolded from the 13th to the 16th of this month at the Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo, recently came to an inspiring close. This annual event, powered by Ritzbury, once again showcased the nation’s finest young athletes.

Over the course of four thrilling days, more than 5,000 senior athletes from schools across Sri Lanka competed with passion and determination. The championship featured various events, including sprints, relays, hurdles, long jumps, and javelin throws, with athletes demonstrating exceptional skill and sportsmanship.

The Overall Championship for Girls was secured by A Rathnayaka Central College with an impressive total of 190 points, earning them Champion title. Lyceum International College - Wattala claimed the Runner-Up position with 150 points, while Sumana B V - Rathnapura secured 3rd Place with 51 points.

On the Boys’ side, the championship title was clinched by Lyceum International College - Wattala, amassing a total of 136 points. St Benedict’s College - Colombo earned the Runner-Up position with 82 points, and St Joseph’s Vas College - Wennappuwa secured 3rd Place with a commendable 73 points.

Recognizing individual excellence, the Best Athlete of the Year 2023 for Girls was awarded to D M T D Karunarathne from A Rathnayaka Central College - Walala, who accumulated an impressive 1102 points. Similarly, K M Yasiru from Kahawaththa Central College was honored as the Best Athlete of the Year 2023 for Boys, having achieved a remarkable 1078 points.

The Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Senior Athletics Championship has a rich history of nurturing talent and promoting sportsmanship. This year’s edition continued this tradition, offering a platform for young athletes to shine and pursue their dreams in the world of athletics.

Dr. Kusala Fernando, President of the Sri Lanka School Athletic Association, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Ritzbury for their unwavering support, saying, "Ritzbury has been the backbone of this championship for over a decade, and their commitment has been instrumental in its growth and success. This event not only promotes athletic excellence but also brings communities together, transcending boundaries."

Ritzbury, Sri Lanka’s favourite chocolate brand, has been at the forefront of encouraging youth participation in sports. Nilupul De Silva, General Manager, Marketing of CBL Foods International Pvt Ltd., reiterated the brand’s commitment to fostering young sportsmen and women, stating, "We are immensely proud to be part of the Sir John Tarbat Senior Athletics Championship for the 11th consecutive year. Ritzbury believes in the potential of our young athletes, and we will continue to support them in their journey to success."

The championship concluded with an award ceremony where outstanding athletes were recognized for their exceptional performances. The event was not only a testament to the athleticism of Sri Lanka’s youth but also a celebration of unity and sportsmanship.