BENTOTA: (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka’s top windsurfer, Priyantha Gunawardene of the Sri Lanka Navy, emerged as the National Champion for the second consecutive year at the Windsurfing Nationals 2025, held at the picturesque Bentota Picnic Beach last Saturday.
Gunawardene, who claimed the championship title last year at Crow Island Beach in Mattakkuliya, showed his dominance once again in this annual one-day event. With consistent performances throughout the competition, he sealed the victory and added another prestigious title to his career.
The runner-up spot was claimed by his fellow Navy teammate, WAS Weeratunga, who put up a strong fight throughout the day but ultimately fell short of claiming the top honour. The bronze medal was awarded to Kosala de Silva from the host Bentota Windsurfing Club, whose impressive display earned him a podium finish.
The event saw a competitive field of leading windsurfers from across the country, representing eight registered clubs under the Yachting Association of Sri Lanka. The participating clubs included the Royal Colombo Yacht Club (RCYC), Ceylon Motor Yacht Club (CMYC), Sri Lanka Navy Sailing Club, Bentota Windsurfing Club, Ruhunu Sailing Association, Kalpitiya Windsports Club, Future Fibres Sailing Club, and Cinec Sailing Club.
Despite the stiff competition, Gunawardene’s experience and skill on the water were evident, as he dominated the event from start to finish. His victory highlights the strength and talent emerging from the Sri Lanka Navy Sailing Club, who once again claimed the top honours.
This year’s competition provided a thrilling spectacle for both participants and spectators, showcasing the growing popularity of windsurfing in Sri Lanka. The event was also an important opportunity for local windsurfers to showcase their talent and compete at a national level, further promoting the sport in the region.
