Ritzbury has announced the successful conclusion of the 34th Ritzbury Junior National Squash Championship 2023, held at the Ratmalana Air Force Squash Courts on Sunday (17). 

With an unwavering dedication to the growth and promotion of squash on a national scale, Ritzbury has been the trusted sponsor of this prestigious championship for 15 consecutive years. 

Commencing on 9 September, this year’s event welcomed over 450 individual participants, marking a remarkable 40% increase in entries compared to the previous year. The tournament featured talented young boys and girls across six age categories: Under 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, and 19, making it a true celebration of youth sportsmanship.

In the boys’ category, Nevindu Lakman from D.S. Senanayake College emerged as the Junior National Champion, followed by Sehath Perera of Royal College as the Runner-Up, while Matheesha Wijesekara, also from Royal College, secured third place. 

In the girls’ category, Chanithma Sinalay from Sirimavo Bandaranaike Vidyalaya claimed the title of Junior National Champion. Themini Palliyaguru, also representing Sirimavo Bandaranaike Vidyalaya, emerged as the Runner-Up.

“The Ritzbury Junior National Squash Championship has firmly established itself as a significant highlight on the annual squash calendar. It has served as a fertile ground for nurturing emerging talent from various regions across the country. 

“Ritzbury’s steadfast commitment to advancing the sport at the grassroots level, ensuring district-wise promotion, has been instrumental in facilitating increased participation and fostering the next generation of squash champions,” Sri Lanka Squash Federation (SLSF) President Dhammika Wijesundara said.

CBL Foods International (Pvt) Ltd. General Manager – Marketing Nilupul de Silva added: “Ritzbury has continued to support the development of squash in Sri Lanka for over a decade. We are elated to see a growth of interest in the sport, along with the sportsmen and women themselves showing exponential development. The results of this year’s champion stand as a testament to this.”