Indian golfer Manoj and Dhanushi in sparkling form secure top prizes

Top-class Indian junior golfer Manoj Sreeramappa and technically correct and long-range specialist Dhanushi Wanasinghe secured the top Gold segment wins at the boys’ and girls’ events respectively at the Sri Lanka Junior Match-Play Championship 2024 accounting for the Rukmini Kodagoda Trophy. 

This year’s event saw more than 100 kids in action at the Royal Colombo Golf Club (RCGC) recently.

The event marked the ninth year of this prestigious competition, which has become a vital part of Sri Lanka Golf’s efforts to develop the sport among the youth. The event was sponsored by Perera and Sons, in its efforts to support the fast-growing sport of golf in the country.

Manoj Sreeramappa emerged victorious, defeating Yannik Kumara by a convincing margin of 3 and 2. Sreeramappa’s impressive performance showed the depth of talent under his belt and his exposure gained by playing in the Asian courses.

Dhanushi Wanasinghe claimed the girls’ Gold/Silver medal, beating Anumi Karunathilake 4 and 3, while Thejas Rathis Kanth took the Silver medal, defeating Kiyan Johnpillai in a closely contested match. Thejas, who was four up in the 14th hole, lost the 15th one, but in the end, went on to win the encounter 3/2 in the 16th hole.

In the Bronze division, Lavidu Permarathna outclassed Revaan Amarasinghe 4 and 3 in the boys’ event, while Nimasha Dahandu edged out Vihara Herath one up in the girls’ competition. The Copper division saw Jaeden Sathasivam defending his title for the second year in running, defeating Yuvan Rathis Kanth one up, with Jaeden also emerging victorious against the same opponent in the 2023 edition. Nine-year-old Jaeden, a student from Asian International School, secured this title first when he was eight years old.

Reshan Algama won the ‘Longest Drive’ for boys in the Gold division, with Varun Fernando winning in the Silver division and Sithara Lorance winning for girls in the Gold/Silver segments.

Perera and Sons, the event’s proud sponsor, played a vital role in supporting the growth of Junior Golf in Sri Lanka. Their long-standing partnership with Sri Lanka Golf has ensured the continued success and visibility of this important tournament.

(SJ)