Welcome to

Sonal's Rowing Journey

   This platform offers an inside look into Sonal’s rowing journey, athletic achievements, academic accomplishments, leadership roles and personal development both on and off the water.

From grueling ergometer sessions and early morning rows to podium finishes, championship titles, academic awards, scholarships, and international representation, follow the dedication, discipline, and determination that drive his pursuit of excellence.

Whether you are a fellow athlete, coach, supporter, sponsor, or rowing enthusiast, you are invited to be part of the journey as Sonal continues to grow, compete, and strive for new milestones in sport, education, and life.

About

Who is Sonal

      Darren Sonal Tranchell was born in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on 14 July 2011 and is a student of Asian International School, where he has studied since Montessori. At the age of 12, Sonal discovered his passion for rowing, a sport that quickly became a central part of his life. Since then, he has dedicated countless hours to training, competition, and personal development, demonstrating a level of commitment and discipline beyond his years.

  • Committed High-Performance athlete...
  • Beyond rowing, Sonal is active in swimming, shot put, discus throw, and powerlifting...
  • Continues to maintain a solid academic record, too...

Video on  

Welcome to Sonal’s Video Gallery!
Watch Sonal’s races, training sessions, and key moments as he continues to develop as a competitive rower. This collection showcases the dedication, discipline, and progress that define his rowing journey...

News

Local & International Updates

CARNAGE Athlete Foundation launched.

      From left Sri Lanka National Football Team Captain Sujan Perera, Ironman 70.3 Triathlete competitor and Resilience Ambassador Khalid Osman, and high-performance junior rower representing Sri Lanka Darren Sonal Tranchell with CARNAGE Founder and CEO Joel Tillekeratne, at the official signing of the Carnage Athlete Foundation, marking the launch of CARNAGE’s athlete development initiative “Building the Next Generation of Champion Athletes...

WinTech Racing Support - Asian Rowing Cup 2026

WinTech Racing provided invaluable support during Sonal's first solo international competition at the Asian Rowing Cup 2026 in South Korea. Through the provision of a WinTech single scull and a pair of oars, the company helped ensure he had access to high-quality equipment throughout the event.

Gallery

Journey through the lens


More Pictures

Support Network

Partners - Affiliations - Equipment

Testimonials

Voices along sonal's journey

Mandy Hennessey

Mandy Hennessey

Croker Oars

Meeting Sonal came about by chance, following an enquiry his mother made to Croker Oars, but it has been a truly rewarding experience. Even before we met, the photos his mother shared captured Sonal’s genuine warmth and infectious smile. It was immediately apparent that he was a kind and humble young man. After meeting him in person, it quickly became clear that he possesses an exceptional level of dedication and commitment to the sport of rowing...

Robbie Manson

New Zealand Rower & Coach

I have known Sonal since the end of 2025, and he has shown a great attitude towards his training. He is dedicated, hard-working, and always willing to learn. I’m excited to see how he continues to progress in the coming years.

Pedro Sanz Lopez

Former Technical Director-SL Rowing / Spain Rowing Coach

After many years of coaching talented athletes from the grassroots level, I can confidently say that Sonal is one of the best athletes I have had the privilege to coach. His exceptional physical attributes - strength, power, and height are matched by his dedication, discipline, and genuine passion for our sport. He consistently demonstrates the commitment and work ethic required to succeed at the highest level. I truly believe that Sonal represents Sri Lanka’s greatest hope for the future of our sport.

Mr. Sithira Wickramasekara

President Diyawannawa Rowing Academy / President Bolgoda Lake Rowing Club

I have seen sonal becoming a rowing star from a very young age. A very polite boy who has respect for his fellow athelets as well. Win or lose he's always there to support any one. I really got to know him when we went to south korea for a regatta where he kept the Sri Lanka flag flying high in water as well as outside the competition. I wish him all the best in all his future endeavours

Mr. Park, Sang Min (Peter)

Assistant Manager of Korean Rowing Association

It was an absolute privilege to support Sonal during his first solo international trip for the Asian Rowing Cup in Korea. Watching him compete on the water was truly inspiring. As a young athlete, Sonal demonstrated incredible focus, resilience, and a mature work ethic that left a deep impression on all of us. His passion for rowing is undeniable, and he carries himself with the grace of a true sportsman. I have no doubt that this is just the beginning of a remarkable journey, and I look forward to watching him achieve great things in the future.

Mr. Harshana D. Perera

The principal of Asian International School (AIS)

Sonal is a very promising young lad who has performed exceptionally well as an all-round student and particularly excellent in Rowing. He has demonstrated a disciplined work ethic, tremendous grit and personal resolve. He is truly dedicated to the sport and has given nothing short of his best. Sonal embodies the sterling qualities of an ideal role model at Asian International School. He is gentle and tough, hardworking and focused, strong and sensitive in character. He understands the value of maintaining a good balance in life and navigating life on an even keel...

Ms. Nihara Bagoos

Head of Sports - Asian International School (AIS)

Sonal Tranchell is an exceptional young athlete whose dedication, discipline, and determination set him apart. From the very beginning, he has shown an outstanding commitment to rowing, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and an eagerness to improve...

Sanjeewa Guruge

Head Coach of AIS Rowing

I have had the privilege of coaching Sonal since the very beginning of his rowing journey. Watching him grow from a young beginner into one of Sri Lanka's most promising young rowers has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my coaching career. From day one, Sonal has stood out for his discipline, determination, and willingness to learn. He approaches every training session with commitment, respects his coaches and teammates, and always gives his best, whether in training or competition.

Eric Bao

WinTech Racing - China

I’ve seen many talented young rowers throughout my career in the rowing industry over the past decade. Sonal has all the qualities required to become an outstanding rower—his physique, passion, and commitment to the sport. Keep developing your skills and continue gaining more experience by competing in rowing regattas. You have a very bright future in this sport, and I look forward to seeing you perform on even greater stages.