The 40th National Rowing Championship was held from 23rd to the 26th of July 2025 at the Diyawanna Rowing Centre. This year’s championship marked a historic milestone in the annals of national rowing, drawing the finest talent from across the country. A highlight of the championship was Jaanya Kumarawadu of Gateway College being honoured as the Best Junior Girls Sculler in the school category, a testament to her outstanding consistency and dedication to the sport. Gateway College’s athletes delivered an exceptional performance, showcasing skill, determination, and teamwork that brought home an impressive collection of medals.

Gold Medal Performances
Gateway College celebrated multiple first place finishes. Jaanya Kumarawadu dominated the girls’ events, clinching gold in both the SGS event and the Under 17 Girls Single Scull. In the boys’ category, Ganindu Kirinde and Nathon Gregory powered their way to gold in the Under 17 Boys Double Scull. The MIM Quadruple Scull team, comprising Chareen Jayakody, Shenith Pathirana, Manuga Wijesinghe, and Reshil Peiris, also secured a well-deserved gold, further reinforcing Gateway’s dominance on the water.

Silver Medal Wins
Gateway’s silver medal achievements were equally commendable. Ganindu Kirinde added to his medal tally with a strong second place finish in the Under 17 Boys Single Scull. Jaanya Kumarawadu also won silver in the Under 19 Girls Single Scull, displaying versatility and endurance across categories. The Under-15 Girls Quadruple Scull team, comprising Seth Ranatunga, Shehaya Pathirana, Devasha Edirisinghe, Siyara Rajakaruna, and Akithya De Costa, earned a silver medal for their synchronised effort and determination.

Bronze Medal Finishes
Gateway’s younger rowers also made their mark with bronze medal performances. Siyara Rajakaruna secured bronze in the Under-15 Girls Single Scull and teamed up with Shehaya Pathirana to win another bronze in the Under 15 girls Coxed Quadruple Scull team event. These results highlight the emerging talent within the school’s rowing programme.

Gateway College’s success at the 40th National Rowing Championship is a reflection of the school’s commitment to nurturing rowing talent and building a strong sporting culture.