Colombo, Mar 21, 4.45PM – Last week, the picturesque shores of Mount Lavinia witnessed a remarkable feat in swimming as para athlete Galina Basnayake, representing Rainbow Aquatics, emerged as the Best Open Women Para Swimmer at the 85th Two-mile Sea Swim. Hosted by the Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union (SLASU) and supported by the Mount Lavinia Hotel.
At just 19 years old, Basnayake competed alongside regular swimmers in the Open Women Category, clocking an impressive time of 50:00.60. Her performance not only placed her among the top four swimmers but also secured her the title of top para swimmer in the event.
In a closely contested race, Chanudi Kumararappeuma of Lyceum International School Nugegoda claimed the Women’s Open Championship with a time of 49:54.49, followed closely by Anjali Agalawatta of Zeefit Sports Club and Sehara Anuhansi of Sri Devananda College Ambalangoda. Despite the tough competition, Basnayake’s determination propelled her to victory as the leading para swimmer.
Basnayake’s achievements extend beyond local waters, as she clinched a silver medal in the women’s 400m Freestyle F9 event at last year’s Asian Para Games in China. This victory marked a significant milestone for Sri Lanka, securing its first medal in the competition after a 13-year gap.
Under the guidance of Head Coach Jullian Bolling and Assistant Coach Penuka Wijemanna at Rainbow Aquatics, Basnayake has been honing her skills for international competitions. Her sights are now set on the Paris Paralympic Qualification event scheduled for May, where she aims to showcase her talent on the Olympic stage.