Asian International School’s talented rower Shaylon Gunaratne has made history once again, securing the prestigious Schoolboy Sculler Shield at the 39th National Rowing Championship. This achievement marks his triple gold medal win, making him the Best Junior National Oarsman. The championship, organized by the Amateur Rowing Association (ARASL) at the
Diyawanna Rowing Centre in Battaramulla, witnessed Gunaratne’s outstanding performance.
Competing in the Under-18 Boys category, Gunaratne led AIS to victory, clinching the Junior National Rowing Overall Men’s Champions title for 2024. His remarkable feat includes winning gold in the Under-18 Boys Single Scull event, as well as triumphing in the Double Scull alongside AIS teammate Shivenedra Goonewardana.
Gunaratne’s exceptional talent didn’t stop there. Alongside his Schoolboy Sculler Shield, he clinched two more gold medals in this year’s national competition, bringing his total to three golds.
Last year, Gunaratne also made an impact at the Asian Coastal Rowing Championship held in Thailand, where he secured a gold medal in the Single Scull event and a bronze in the Mixed Double Scull. These victories not only brought pride to Sri Lanka but also marked the first medals won by the country at the Asian level.
Shaylon Gunaratne continues to shine in rowing, cementing his status as a true champion both nationally and internationally.
Sajeewa Jayakody