Rukmini Kodagoda Memorial Trophy Golf Tourney: Yannik and Manoj book their final berth

By Shamseer Jaleel

The Sri Lanka Junior Match-Play Golf Championship 2024 reached its day three with the Gold Division producing some exciting encounters as Yannik Kumara and Manoj Sreeramappa (India) moved forward for the grand final at the Sri Lanka Junior Match-Play Championship at the Royal Colombo Golf Club (RCGC) Course.

This tournament is played for the Rukmini Kodagoda Memorial Trophy and sponsored by Perera and Sons for the ninth year in tandem.

Gold Division:

In the Gold Division, Manoj Sreeramappa delivered an impressive performance, defeating Jacob Norton 4-3 in a closely contested match. 

Manoj’s strategic play and consistent putting under pressure were key factors in his victory. This win has secured his place in the final, where he will face the formidable Yannik Kumara.
Kumara’s journey to the final was marked by a good performance against Jevahn Sathasivam 3-2. Yannik, known for his powerful drives and precise approach shots, breezed through the match, showing his potential as a top class golfer in junior segment. 

His confidence and composure on the course have made him a favourite to watch in the upcoming final.

Silver Division

The Silver Division has also seen its share of excitement, with Thejas Rathis Kanth and Kaiyan Johnpilliah emerging as the finalists. 

Both players have demonstrated exceptional skills and determination throughout the tournament.

Rathis Kanth’s journey to the final was highlighted by his resilience and tactical prowess. His ability to navigate challenging course conditions and maintain focus during crucial moments has earned him a spot in the final.

Johnpilliah, on the other hand, impressed with his steady and consistent play. His strong short game and accurate putting have been crucial in securing his place in the final. 

He beat the last year’s winner Adithya Weerasinghe in a major upset of the segment. The upcoming match between Thejas and Kaiyan promises to be a thrilling contest, with both players eager to claim the Silver Division title.

In the Girls’ Gold and Silver, Anumi Karunathilake from Good Shepherd Convent, Kandy booked her final berth with an impressive win over Sithara Lorance while Danushi Wanasinghe beat Kaitlyn Norton to book her final spot.

Ever-reliable Revaan Amarasinghe and Lavidu Premarathna too booked their final berth in the Bronze segment.
The Copper final will be an exciting one with two exciting youngsters, Yuvan Rathis Kanth and Jaeden Sathasivam battling it out in the final encounter on day four.

Gold Division Boys’:
Manoj Sreeramappa beat Jacob Norton 4-3, Yannik Kumara beat Jevahn Sathasivam 3-2.

Silver Division Boys’:
Kaiyan Johnpilliah beat Adithiya Weerasinghe 6-5, Thaejas Rathis Kanth beat Varun Fernando 2-1

Gold and Silver Division Girls’:
Anumi Karunathilaka beat Sithara Lorance 2/1, Danushi Wanasinghe beat Kaitlyn Norton 3/2.

Bronze Division Boys’:
Lavidu Premarathna beat Danik Daluwatte 4-3, Revaan Amarasinghe beat Udeera Bandara 4-3.

Copper Division Boys’: Yuvan Rathis Kanth beat Sashen de Silva 6-4, Jaeden Sathasivam beat Abiman Abeywardhana 4-3.

Plate Division Gold: Vinuda Weerasinghe (73), G. G. S. Sathsara (78).

Silver Division: Shenal Nimsith (76), Pabasara Kavishka (95). 

Bronze Division: Kenul Scofield (70), Ronal Scofield (77).

Copper Division: Dhyana Perera (41), Richard Magala (54).