DINIDU Named Principal Sponsor of the 55th Royal–Thomian Regatta 2026

Colombo 07-based fine jewellery boutique DINIDU has been named the Principal Sponsor of the 55th Royal–Thomian Regatta 2026, bringing together the worlds of fine jewellery craftsmanship and competitive rowing through a shared commitment to discipline, precision and excellence.

Scheduled for October 23, 2026, the regatta will see rowing crews from Royal College, Colombo, and S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, continue one of Sri Lanka’s most enduring sporting rivalries, celebrating a tradition built on dedication, teamwork and camaraderie.

The sponsorship was officially announced at a press conference held on October 9, attended by representatives of both schools, the Joint Organising Committee, sponsors and distinguished guests.

Precision and Excellence on One Stage

Although fine jewellery and competitive rowing may appear to be distinct disciplines, both demand meticulous attention to detail, technical skill and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.

For a fine jewellery piece to achieve perfection, it requires patience, craftsmanship and precision. Similarly, a successful rowing crew must combine individual strength, synchronised movement and seamless coordination to achieve a common goal.

Reflecting on these shared values, Dinidu Tennakoon, founder of DINIDU, highlighted the similarities between the two disciplines.

“Fine jewellery takes a raw element and refines it through discipline and precision until it is flawless. Rowing demands that exact same effort: relentless training, perfect rhythm, and pure teamwork to build a winning crew,” he said.

The partnership reflects DINIDU’s appreciation of traditions that celebrate both individual skill and collective achievement, while recognising the determination required to reach the highest standards.

A Personal Connection to Royal College

Beyond the shared values of craftsmanship and sport, the sponsorship carries personal significance for Tennakoon, a proud Royalist who sees the partnership as an opportunity to give back to his alma mater.

“As a proud Royalist, partnering DINIDU with my alma mater is deeply personal,” he said, describing it as a privilege to associate the brand with an institution that has helped shape generations of young men through character development, leadership and sportsmanship.

The connection adds a personal dimension to DINIDU’s involvement in the regatta, linking the brand’s commitment to excellence with the educational and sporting traditions of Royal College.

Celebrating a Sporting Legacy

The Royal–Thomian Regatta extends beyond the competition between two rowing crews. It represents generations of sporting heritage, bringing together students, alumni and supporters through a shared appreciation of athletic achievement, school pride and the friendships formed through competition.

By supporting the 55th edition, DINIDU aims to celebrate this legacy while recognising the discipline, commitment and perseverance of the young athletes preparing to compete.

As the Royal–Thomian rivalry returns to the water on October 23, the partnership highlights the enduring values that unite craftsmanship and sport: precision, teamwork, respect for tradition and the pursuit of excellence.

DINIDU has extended its best wishes to both crews for a memorable regatta, where competitive spirit will be accompanied by friendship, mutual respect and pride in the traditions of both schools.