‘India-Sri Lanka unique link’: Boat races back after Covid hiatus

It is considered to be the oldest regatta in the world between two cities in different countries. It was first held in the year 1898. Each year, the two host cities take turns to organise the event.

The Madras-Colombo Regatta was held at the Colombo Rowing Club after a three-year hiatus – due to the pandemic – on Saturday. The High Commissioner of India, Gopal Baglay, was also present at the event, which was supported by the Indian CEO forum.

This year, the Madras Boat Club’s Women’s team secured the Adyar trophy while the Men’s team of Colombo Rowing Club lifted the Deepam trophy. The Indian embassy in Sri Lanka shared visuals of the event on Twitter and called it “a unique link between India and Sri Lanka, and indeed in the world.”

Videos of the event capture the competitive spirit among the rowers as crowds cheered. The event between the two countries reminded the strength of sports in bringing together nations, irrespective of differences, as per spectators. The high commissioner of India “cheered the competitors and said that India will continue to row together with Sri Lanka in the race against common challenges,” as per a statement by the embassy.

The Madras-Colombo Regatta

It is considered to be the oldest regatta in the world between two cities in different countries. It was first held in the year 1898. Each year, the two host cities take turns to organise the event. The Men’s fours event in Madras-Colombo is the second oldest inter-club Boat Race in the world after the Oxford-Cambridge Boat race. Events are held for both men and women over a distance of 1,000 meters, with separate overall trophies for both.

Winners of the Men’s overall receive the Deepam Trophy, while the “Adyar Trophy” is awarded to the women.