By Shamseer Jaleel
In a remarkable display of golfing skills, 15-year-old long-range hitting junior golfer, Reshan Algama wrote his name in history by emerging triumphant at the Royal Colombo Golf Club (RCGC) Club Championship which concluded last weekend at their course in Borella.
The ladies event was won by 14-year-old, Kaya Daluwatte who won her third title in this segment not losing since 2021.
Algama’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary as he outplayed the defending champion and five-time winner, Amrith de Soysa, in a gripping 36-hole match. Beyond his years, the youngster exhibited unmatched skill and composure, reading both the course and his opponent with top class knowledge of the game. His strategic brilliance and most importantly a calm and composed attitude led to a well-deserved victory of 2/1, marking a significant milestone in his stunning career that has already impressed not only locally but overseas as well.
His path to victory was paved with exceptional talent and unwavering determination. Overcoming seasoned competitors Vinod Weerasinghe (semi-final) and Amrith, he continued to showcase his mettle as a rising star in the golfing world.
Algama is coached by Jehaan de Saram and Anura Rohana. Meanwhile seasoned campaigner, Amrith de Soysa overcame Vinuda Weerasinghe on his way
to the final.
In the Ladies’ Segment Kaya Daluwatta, a talented golfer currently showing her skills in India while pursuing studies, secured a resounding victory over seasoned Anuk Chetty, showing her supreme class over the last three years in this segment. With a commanding lead Daluwatta defended her title effortlessly, sealing victory on the 13th hole with five holes to spare. Her unwavering dedication and consistent performance showcase her as a standout player, marking her reputation as one of the youngest champions in the Royal Colombo Golf Club, Club Championship history. She was also coached by de Saram and now her Indian Coach is Tarun Saradesai.
Other segment winners are:
Seniors Division: Winner- Kan Butani, Runner-up – R. K. Withanachchi; Masters Division: Winner - Nilkmala Perera, Runner-up - Andy Anderson; Bronze Division: Winner - Asanka Sahabandu, Runner –up - Olga Herath; Silver Division: Winner - Michael Sathasivam, Runner-up - Keshav Algama
