Acknowledgements
Honouring those who made it possible
Behind every athlete is a team of people whose encouragement, guidance, and support make success possible. I am deeply grateful to the following individuals and organizations who have played an important role in my rowing journey.
The Team Behind My Journey
-
God & Family
-
Asian International School
-
Coaches & Mentors
-
Amateur Rowing Association of Sri Lanka
-
Diyawanna Rowing Club
-
Teammates & Friends
-
Sponsors & Supporters
Performance & Management Team
-
Sonali de Silva - Manager
-
Sanjeewa Guruge - Head Coach
-
Nalin Jayawardane - Physiotherapist
-
Buddhika Gayan — Equipment Specialist
-
Thissa Jayalath — Club Support & Athlete Care
A Journey Made Possible by Many
Every athlete may cross the finish line alone, but no athlete reaches that moment without the support of countless people along the way.As I reflect on my rowing journey, I am reminded that every opportunity, achievement, and milestone has been made possible through the encouragement, guidance, sacrifices, and belief of those who have stood beside me.
First and foremost, I give thanks and glory to God. Through every success, challenge, disappointment, and victory, my faith has been a constant source of strength, guidance, and purpose. I am grateful for His blessings and for the opportunities He has placed before me.
To my family, thank you for being the foundation of everything I do. Your sacrifices, prayers, encouragement, and unwavering belief in me have made this journey possible. Every early morning training session, every competition, every achievement, and every setback has been shared with you. Your love and support continue to inspire me to pursue my dreams with confidence and determination.
I am proud to represent Asian International School both locally and internationally. I would like to thank my Principal, Mr. Harshana Perera, Ms. Nehara Bagoos, Head of Sports, and my teachers for their continued encouragement and support of my academic and sporting aspirations.
A special thank you goes to Coach Sanjeewa Guruge, my school rowing coach. There would not be a Sonal Tranchell in rowing today if it were not for your belief in me. From helping me secure the opportunity to attend my National Pool Trials after illness to trusting me with my first single scull, you saw potential in me and gave me the confidence to pursue it. The opportunities you created and the faith you placed in me changed the direction of my rowing journey forever.
I am equally grateful to Coach Pedro Sanz for helping refine my technique and deepen my understanding of the sport. Although our time together was relatively short, your knowledge, guidance, and continued support have left a lasting impact on my development as an athlete.
I would also like to thank the Amateur Rowing Association of Sri Lanka for giving me the honour and privilege of representing my country. I remain grateful for every opportunity entrusted to me.
One of the greatest blessings of my rowing journey has been the opportunity to learn from Coach Howard Croker. What began with a simple photograph sent for advice on oars opened the door to international training camps, regattas, lifelong friendships, and invaluable life experiences. Beyond rowing, the lessons learned through conversations, experiences on the farm, and time spent with your family have helped shape me as both a rower and a young man. The Croker family will always hold a special place in my heart.
My sincere gratitude also extends to the University of Technology Sydney for welcoming me as an affiliate athlete and providing me with opportunities to learn and compete within one of Australia’s most respected rowing programs. Thank you to Coach Tim McLaren for the privilege of learning from one of the sport’s most accomplished coaches, and to Coach Sam Fennessy for your support, friendship, and generosity during my visits to Sydney. The experiences, friendships, and lessons gained through UTS have become some of the most valuable memories of my rowing journey.
At home, DRC Rowing Club has been the heart of my rowing development. It is the place where I have spent countless hours training and working towards my goals. I am grateful to the Club President for his support and encouragement. To Thissa Uncle, thank you for being there from my very first footplate adjustment to every act of care and assistance I have needed along the way. To Gayan Aiya, thank you for your professionalism and dedication in ensuring that my equipment is always in top condition and race-ready. Your contributions may often happen behind the scenes, but they are invaluable to my success.
My appreciation extends to Colombo Rowing Club for providing opportunities to compete in your annual regattas and for extending access to your facilities. These experiences have contributed significantly to my growth and development as a competitive rower.
A special thank you goes to my physiotherapist, Nalin, whose care, expertise, and support have helped keep me injury-free and physically prepared throughout the year.
To my teammates, captains, and friends within the Asian International School Rowing Crew, thank you for making this journey so enjoyable. Through early mornings, hard training sessions, victories, setbacks, and celebrations, we have grown together as athletes and friends. I am especially grateful for your encouragement and support during my individual races and regattas. The friendships and memories we have built together will stay with me forever.
Finally, I would like to thank all my sponsors and supporters. Your faith in me and your willingness to support my journey have allowed me to pursue opportunities that may otherwise not have been possible. A special thank you to Carnage for your belief in my potential and your continued support of my ambitions.
While it is impossible to mention every individual who has contributed to my journey, please know that your support, encouragement, and belief in me have not gone unnoticed. I am grateful to everyone who has played a part in helping me become the athlete and person I am today.
As I continue my journey, I carry with me the lessons, friendships, opportunities, and support of an incredible community. Every race I compete in, every challenge I overcome, and every goal I pursue is a reflection of the many people who have helped me along the way. For that, I will always be grateful.