COLOMBO: (ePRESS) – Kithmi Marambe, a name that resonates with excellence in diving, has left an enduring legacy on her alma mater, Bishop’s College. Since beginning her diving journey in 2014, Kithmi has been an unstoppable force, winning age group championships in every national diving competition she entered. Her leadership of the Bishop’s College diving team displayed her grace, willpower, and unyielding passion, making her a symbol of perseverance and dedication.
Recently, Kithmi’s final appearance at the Sri Lanka Schools’ Aquatic Championship was nothing short of extraordinary. Competing with a fractured foot, she clinched the Under-20 Overall Best Diver title for the second consecutive year. Her resolute spirit, fueled by the encouragement of her coach, Chanaka Wickramasinghe, and the firm support of her family and school community, was evident in every dive she executed with remarkable commitment.
Kithmi’s journey began under the mentorship of Coach Esiri Kankanige, who guided her to her first championships in 2014. When Coach Esiri migrated, Kithmi found a new mentor in Coach Chanaka Wickramasinghe, who pushed her to greater heights. Despite changes in her school coaching staff over the years, her school coaches, Mahinda Liyanage and Kasun de Silva, have continued to nurture her dedication and growth in the sport.
In 2017, Kithmi secured her first Overall Best Diver award at the 43rd National Age Group Diving Championship, marking the start of her dominance in Sri Lankan diving. Her consistent success earned her numerous titles and set new benchmarks in the sport. Kithmi’s talent also extended beyond national borders, as she represented Sri Lanka at international competitions, including the Asian Open Schools Invitational Swimming and Diving Championship in Bangkok and the Asian Age Groups Championships in India.
Her achievements weren’t limited to the diving board. Academically, Kithmi excelled, securing 9As in her GCE O/L exams and later achieving 3As and 1B in her London AS exams. Beyond academics, she was a diving captain, a school prefect, a member of the western band, and an accomplished concert flutist.
However, her final year at school was a whirlwind of emotions. As captain of the Sri Lanka team at the BIMSTEC Aquatic Championship 2024, Kithmi won the silver medal in the 1m Spring Board event, the only medal for Sri Lanka in the competition. Tragedy struck in June when she fractured her foot during practice. Despite the setback, Kithmi competed in her final school event, the 49th Sri Lanka Schools’ Aquatic Sports Championship, and once again emerged as the Under-20 Overall Best Diver.
In a humble interview, Kithmi expressed her deep gratitude to her coaches, particularly Chanaka Wickramasinghe, and her early inspiration, National Diving Captain Sahan Peiris. However, it was her elder brother, Matheesha Marambe, who became her true diving hero. She admires him as the perfect diver, someone she aspires to emulate.
In Sri Lanka, the diving scene has been brightly illuminated by the sibling duo of Kithmi and Matheesha Marambe. They have not only excelled individually but have also set a remarkable standard, captaining their schools, Bishop’s College and Royal College. Together, they have consistently dominated national diving championships, raising the bar each year with their exceptional performances. Matheesha, who concluded his school diving career last year, left behind a legacy of greatness that Kithmi continues to build upon.
Kithmi Marambe’s journey in diving is a proof to endurance, commitment, and a deep passion for the sport. From her early days at Bishop’s College, Kithmi showed an unshakable determination to excel, pushing herself to achieve greatness. Her leadership as the vice-captain and later the captain of her school team led Bishop’s College to numerous victories in diving competitions. Her confidence and skill made her a reliable asset for the team, ensuring top scores and consistent wins.
But Kithmi’s story goes beyond medals and titles. Her thorough knowledge of FINA rules has made her an advocate for fairness in the sport. She stands up for her teammates, fights for justice, and ensures that every competitor is treated fairly, highlighting her dedication not only to her sport but also to its integrity.
Kithmi’s achievements have brought glory to Bishop’s College and set a high standard for future generations of Sri Lankan divers. Her success has inspired young athletes who look up to her as a role model, ensuring that her legacy in Sri Lankan diving will endure long after she leaves the pool.
