New Clark City, Philippines, 9PM – Sri Lanka’s Christina Perumal, a student at Asian International School, made a big splash in the swimming world. At the 11th Asian Age Group Aquatic Championships in New Clark City, Philippines, she achieved a remarkable feat. Perumal, just 16 years old, became the seventh fastest women’s 200m breaststroke swimmer in all of Asia.
In a thrilling race, Perumal finished the women’s 200m Breaststroke in just 2 minutes and 55 seconds. She left behind top swimmers from across Asia, proving her incredible talent. It’s a huge deal to make it to the finals in all of Asia, especially in the highly competitive age category of 15-17.
Teaming up with fellow swimmers from different schools in Sri Lanka, Perumal also participated in the Girls 16 to 17 women’s 4X100m Medley Relay. Their team Kaitlyn de Zilwa of Stafford International School, Amaiah Rasool of St Bridget’s Convent and Jessie Seneviratne of Holy Family Convent secured the sixth position, proudly representing Sri Lanka.
However, there was some disappointment for Perumal in the women’s 100m breaststroke event. Due to a technical error by the organizers, she couldn’t participate, despite being a strong contender for a top position.
Other Sri Lankan swimmers showcased their talent as well. Okitha Gunasekara finished seventh in the 100m freestyle, while Nikhil Kumaraguru of Asian International School set personal bests in the 50m butterfly and 50m backstroke races.
Kumaraguru took part in the 50m butterfly race alongside top competitors. Despite stiff competition, he finished 12th, setting the fastest time for Sri Lanka among swimmers aged 15-17, where many countries participated. Impressively, Nikhil achieved his personal best time of 26.32 seconds in the 50m butterfly event. Moreover, he also surpassed his own record in the 50m backstroke, clocking in at 28.82 seconds. In the intense men’s 4×100 medley relay, Nikhil’s team narrowly missed securing a spot in the finals, ending up in ninth place overall. Nikhil’s outstanding performance showcases his dedication and skill in the pool, bringing pride to AIS and Sri Lanka.
In the overall standings, Sri Lanka’s swimming team ranked 17th out of 49 countries, tying with Jordan. The highlight of the tournament came on the final day when the Women’s 18 and Over 4X200m Freestyle team clinched the bronze medal after seven years.
The bronze medal-winning team comprised captain UK-based Minagi Rupesinghe, Seneshi Herath of Colombo Swimming Academy, Aneeka Sumanathilleke of Ladies’ College, and Linara Gunasekara of Elizabeth Moir School.
While the swimming team returned home, other teams from Sri Lanka continued their participation in water polo, diving, and artistic swimming until March 9 in New Clark City, Philippines.
Asian Interntional School’s Christina Perumal shines as Asia’s 7th fastest women’s 200m swimmer
