Over 1000 for sea swim

By Susil Premalal

Sri Lanka’s aquatic sports scene is set to witness one of its oldest and most prestigious open water events as the Mount Lavinia annual two mile sea swim celebrates its 87th edition. 

The event, jointly organized by the Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union (SLASU) and Mount Lavinia Hotel, has received applications from over 1000 national and international swimmers according to the organisers.

Recognised as one of South Asia’s premier open water competitions, the two-mile sea swim attracts elite athletes, emerging young talent and passionate swimmers from across the island and overseas. 

This year’s championship is scheduled to take place on March 7 and 8 at the Mount Lavinia Hotel beach.

The schedule includes the women’s Open and under-15 boys and girls events on the morning of March 7 followed by the men’s Open event on the morning of March 8.

Speaking at a press briefing, SLASU Secretary General Mahinda Liyanage and Swimming Technical Director Ghefari Dulapandan said that the event will be the first Open water event of 2026.

Mount Lavinia Hotel, which has a history spanning over two decades with the event, will provide full support for the 87th edition. 

The championship will follow SLASU regulations, awarding overall winners in each category while also recognising the fastest under-15 boys and girls with special prizes for young swimmers.

Event organisers also emphasised that the Mount Lavinia Sea Swim serves as a key platform to spotlight talent ahead of upcoming international swimming competitions.