Veteran Golfers: Thurstan vs Isipathana Match Braves the Weather

Despite two days of heavy rain, veteran golfers from Thurstan College and Isipathana College gathered at the “Ridgeways Link” of the Royal Colombo Golf Club on Sunday, 25 May, for their annual golfing encounter. The event has become a much-anticipated tradition, offering alumni a chance to showcase their skills, compete for the prestigious challenge trophy, and vie for individual honours.

The tournament, first held in 2018, was initiated by golf-playing old boys from both schools and enriched by the donation of the striking Naomal Fernando Challenge Trophy, inspired by the PGA of America’s iconic design. Over the years, it has grown into a celebration of friendship, camaraderie, and support for current students in cricket and other sports.

This year, both teams were strengthened by alumni representing the Royal Colombo Golf Club. Thurstan College fielded Noel Joseph, Sriyan Gurusinghe, Thushara Rupasinghe, Sumeda Abeyratne, Chaminda Prabath, Lakshman Athukorale, and Harendra De Silva, while Isipathana College’s team included Ravi Liyanage, Roshana Prasad Samaranayake, Nanda Hathurusinghe, Mervin Preena, Anura Somaratne, Anura Wimalaratne, and Manjula Lanerolle. Isipathana also boasts national-level golfer Roshana Prasad Samaranayake among their ranks.

The event was graced by the Principals of both schools—Promoditha Wickramasinghe (Thurstan College) and Dharshana Udawattage (Isipathana College)—and Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, Defence Secretary and distinguished Thurstanite, served as the Guest of Honour.

Award Winners:

• Champion School Trophy / Naomal Fernando Challenge Trophy: Thurstan College

• Champion Golfer (Macksons Trophy): Prof. Deepal Weerasekera (Isipathana College)

• Best Nett Score (Sanka Wijesinghe Memorial Trophy): Prof. Deepal Weerasekera (Isipathana College)

• Best Gross Score (Sunil Jayakody Challenge Trophy): Prof. Deepal Weerasekera (Isipathana College)

• Longest Drive (8th Hole): Lakshman Sumathipala (Thurstan College)

• Closest to the Pin (9th Hole): Pandula Kuruppu (Thurstan College)

• Mystery Holes Winner: Prof. Deepal Weerasekera (Isipathana College)

The event also highlighted the spirit of fellowship, with alumni enjoying a lively two-piece band and a festive atmosphere. Despite challenging conditions, the 2025 Thurstan-Isipathana veteran golf encounter was a resounding success, blending competition, camaraderie, and celebration of this cherished tradition.