Galina Basnayake proudly displays her trophy after emerging victorious as the Best Open Women Para Swimmer at the Mount Lavinia 85th Two-mile Sea Swim.
Galina Basnayake, a talented 19-year-old para swimmer from Rainbow Aquatics, made an impact at the Mount Lavinia 85th Two-mile Sea Swim. The event, organized by the Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union (SLASU) and sponsored by Mount Lavinia Hotel, concluded triumphantly at the Mount Lavinia Public Beach last week.
Competing alongside regular swimmers in the Open Women Category, Basnayake showcased her exceptional skills, clocking an impressive time of 50 minutes and 0.60 seconds. Her remarkable performance secured her a place among the top four swimmers and earned her the title of Best Open Women Para Swimmer.
Despite intense competition from seasoned swimmers, Basnayake’s determination and prowess shone through. Chanudi Kumararappeuma of Lyceum International School Nugegoda clinched the Women’s Open Championship with a time of 49 minutes and 54.49 seconds, followed closely by Anjali Agalawatte of Zeefit Sports Club and Sehara Anuhansi of Sri Devananda College
Ambalangoda. However, it was Basnayake who emerged as the leading para swimmer, showcasing her remarkable talent and resilience. Basnayake’s journey in para swimming has been marked by notable achievements. Competing in the S9 category, she secured a silver medal in
the women’s 400m Freestyle F9 event at last year’s Asian Para Games in China. Her remarkable feat marked a historic moment for Sri Lanka, as it was the country’s first medal in the competition in 13 years.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Jullian Bolling and Assistant Coach Penuka Wijemanna at Rainbow Aquatics, Basnayake continues to hone her skills and strive for excellence. Her next goal is to qualify for the Paris Paralympics, with her sights set on the upcoming international event in May.
Sajeewa Jayakody