Lance Corporal Senaratne and airwoman Madushani win inaugural Adam’s Bridge Paddle Challenge

Leading Airwoman K.W.N. Madushani receives her trophy

Oldest Competitor Admiral (Rtd) Samarasinghe celebrates his 60th birthday on the day of the race

Lance Corporal R. R. Senaratne of the Sri Lanka Army receives his trophy

By P. D. de Silva

Lance Corporal RR Senaratne of the Sri Lanka Army and Leading Air Woman KWN Madushani from the Sri Lanka Air Force won the inaugural Talaimannar – Dhanushkodi Adam’s Bridge Paddle Challenge on Thursday (11).

The event was organised by the Sri Lanka Navy in partnership with the Ministry of Sports, National Association of Canoeing and Kayaking Sri Lanka and Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association.

Chief Petty Officer J. C. Jayasinghe and Leading Seaman H. M. A. D. Gunathilake of the Sri Lanka Navy took second and third place in the men’s event respectively while M.J. De Silva and S. M. de Silva were placed second and third in the women’s event.

Admiral (Rtd) Samarasinghe celebrated his 60th birthday on the day of the race and was the oldest competitor at the event.

The Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera known for his expert kayaking skills and record-setting paddle around the island, provided significant motivation to young athletes by participating in the Adam’s Bridge Paddle Challenge.

Thirty One (31) athletes from National Association of Canoeing, Kayak Sri Lanka, Jade High School Kayaking Club, Adventure SEALs, Sri Lanka Army, Navy and Air Force, Bolgoda Lake Rowing Club, Royal College Colombo 07, Gateway College and Lanka Adventure and three athletes from the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association competed at the inaugural event.