Thurstan-Isipathana Veteran Golf encounter triumphs over inclement weather

The two teams

Guest of Honour Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sampath Thuyacontha (second from left), handing over the Naomal Fernando Challenge Trophy to Old Thurstanites Captain Sriyan Gurusinghe

The victorious Old Thurstanites team with the Naomal Fernando Challenge Trophy

 RCGC Captain Gehan Siribaddana (right) handing over one of the trophies to Old Isipathanian Prof. Deepal Weerasekera, who won the highest number of awards

By Nimal Luxshman

Despite two days of relentless inclement weather, veteran golfers from Thurstan College and Isipathana College gathered with undiminished enthusiasm at the “Ridgeways Link” of the Royal Colombo Golf Club on Sunday, 25 May, for their eagerly anticipated annual golfing encounter.

For most old Isipathanians and Thurstanites who play golf, this event is a highlight of the year—an occasion they look forward to with great anticipation. It is a chance to display their skills, vie for the coveted challenge trophy, and compete for a range of other awards.

This cherished tradition, which first teed off in 2018, was initiated by a group of golf-playing old boys from both institutions. The event was further enriched by the donation of a striking trophy by Naomal Fernando, a leading businessman and old Isipathanian, crafted in the style of the PGA of America’s iconic trophy.

These alumni, who have maintained a strong bond since their school days, continue to foster camaraderie—not only on the golf course but also by providing immense support to students from both colleges. They encourage the students in their spirited engagements, particularly in cricket across all three formats of the game.

When the series began, only seven players represented each college. To add color and inclusivity, the organisers later rounded off each team to eight by inviting two spouses or siblings from each team to participate. Manori Jayakody, wife of old Thurstanite Sunil Jayakody, and Maleena Awn, daughter of Majid Awn, represented Isipathana during the first two years.

This year’s event was distinguished by the presence of the Principals of both schools: Promoditha Wickramasinghe of Thurstan College and Dharshana Udawattage of Isipathana College.

Adding to the prestige of the occasion, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, Defence Secretary and a distinguished old boy of Thurstan College, was warmly welcomed as the Guest of Honour.

Both teams boast talented golfers who represent the Royal Colombo Golf Club (RCGC) in all major tournaments. Thurstan’s team included: Noel Joseph, Sriyan Gurusinghe, Thushara Rupasinghe, Sumeda Abeyratne, Chaminda Prabath, Lakshman Athukorale, and Harendra De Silva. Isipathana was represented by Ravi Liyanage, Roshana Prasad Samaranayake, Nanda Hathurusinghe, Mervin Preena, Anura Somaratne, Anura Wimalaratne, and Manjula Lanerolle. Notably, Isipathana takes special pride in having Roshana Prasad Samaranayake, the only golfer in the National Pool, among their ranks.

The following awards were presented at the conclusion of the event:

1.Champion School Trophy/Naomal Fernando Challenge Trophy

Winner: Thurstan College

2.Champion Golfer (Macksons Trophy)

Winner: Prof. Deepal Weerasekera (Isipathana College)

3.Best Nett Score (Sanka Wijesinghe Memorial Trophy)

Winner: Prof. Deepal Weerasekera (Isipathana College)

4.Best Gross Score (Sunil Jayakody Challenge Trophy)

Winner: Prof. Deepal Weerasekera (Isipathana College)

5.Longest Drive on the 8th Hole

Winner: Lakshman Sumathipala (Thurstan College)

6.Closest to the Pin on the 9th Hole

Winner: Pandula Kuruppu (Thurstan College)

7.Mystery Holes Winner

Winner: Prof. Deepal Weerasekera (Isipathana College)

 Many distinguished old boys from both institutions eagerly look forward to this annual golfing encounter. Apart from witnessing and encouraging their former college mates as they display their skills and battle it out for the championship, the event is also an important occasion for camaraderie and reconnecting with friends in a relaxed atmosphere.

This year’s event was no exception: old boys showcased their vocal talents, accompanied by a lively two-piece band, adding a festive touch to the proceedings and ensuring that the spirit of fellowship and celebration remained at the heart of the day.