Jayasingha and Senali pedal to gold at NSF Cycling Races

By Susil Premalal

D.S.C. Jayasingha and national-level cyclist Senali Perera, both representing the Western Province, claimed gold medals in the men’s and women’s racing cycling events at the 49th National Sports Festival (NSF) 2025, held yesterday in Hikkaduwa.

The prestigious event was organised by the Ministry of Sports and the Department of Sports Development, drawing the country’s top cyclists to compete for honours.

In the men’s race, which covered a gruelling 163.4 kilometres, Jayasingha finished first in a time of 4 hours 07.01 minutes, edging out E.A. Chandana Weerasinghe of North Central Province, who finished in the same time. Third place went to S.M.K. Sanjula, also of North Central, with a time of 4:08.04.

The women’s race, contested over 55 kilometres, saw Senali Perera power to victory in 1 hour 46.00 minutes. Akasha Sandamini, also of Western Province, took second place, while Panchali Sulochana, another Western Province rider, finished third - all clocking in at 1:46.00.

Results

Men’s Top 3 (163.4km): 1. D.S.C. Jayasingha (Western) 4:07.01 2. E.A. Chandana Weerasinghe (North Central) 4:07.01 3. S.M.K. Sanjula (North Central) 4:08.04
Women’s Top 3 (55km): 1. Senali Perera (Western) 1:46.00 2. Akasha Sandamini (Western) 1:46.00 3. Panchali Sulochana (Western) 1:46.00