MOUNT LAVINIA: (ePRESS) – The Mount Lavinia Two-Mile Sea Swim, one of the world’s oldest open-water competitions, will return for its 86th edition on March 8 and 9. Organized by the Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union (SLASU) and hosted by Mount Lavinia Hotel, the event is set to attract nearly 1,000 swimmers from across the island.
Since its inception, the prestigious race has only been halted during World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic. The competition will begin at 8:00 a.m. each day, with the women’s open category and under-15 boys’ and girls’ events taking place on the first day, while the men’s open race will conclude the event on the second day, followed by the awards ceremony.
At a press briefing on Monday, Mount Lavinia Hotel’s Chief Operating Officer, Anura Dewapura, highlighted the deep connection between the event and its historic venue. “This race is iconic to Mount Lavinia Hotel. The tradition has been passed down through generations, and we are proud to be part of it,” he said.
SLASU General Secretary Mahinda Liyanage assured that strict safety protocols will be in place with support from the Sri Lanka Navy, Coast Guard, Life Saving Association, and Police.
Dr. Ghefari Dulapandan, a member of SLASU’s technical committee, emphasized Sri Lanka’s growing presence in open-water swimming, especially after the sport gained Olympic recognition in 2008. “Last year, 92 Chinese swimmers took part, showing the event’s potential to attract international competitors and boost sports tourism in Mount Lavinia,” he noted.
SLASU Vice President Nethru Nanayakkara pointed out the event’s rich history of champions coming from the same families, continuing a legacy of swimming excellence.
With the strong backing of SLASU President Major General Mananda Yahampath, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a key destination for open-water swimming in the Asian circuit.
