Ritzbury Archives

March 14, 2024

Ritzbury – Sir Henry Steele Olcott Schools Relay Carnival 2024 concluded on a high note recently at the Kotawila Sports Stadium in Matara, showcasing the athletic talents of leading schools from across the island.

The event, jointly organized by the Old Boys Association of Rahula College Matara, the Sports Club of Rahula College Old Boys’ Association, and the Col. Henry Steele Sports Foundation, was proudly sponsored by Ritzbury, Sri Lanka’s favourite chocolate brand of CBL as the Main sponsor.

The carnival culminated with the crowning of champions in both the boys’ and girls’ categories. In the girls’ division, Dharmapala College Pannipitiya emerged victorious with 90 points, Musaeus College secured the runner-up position, and Mahamaya College placed third. In the boys’ division, Rahula College claimed the championship title with 99 points, while Dharmaraja College Kandy finished as the runner-up, followed by Dharmapala College Pannipitiya in third place.

The carnival, held as part of the centenary year celebrations of Rahula College Matara, brought together respected schools such as Sujatha College, Visaka Vidyalaya, Dharmapala College, Dharmasoka College, Sangamittha College, Mahamaya College, Maliyadewa College, Musaeus College, Ananda College, Nalanda College, Dharmaraja College, and Mahinda College.

The Sir Henry Steele Olcott Schools Relay Carnival not only celebrated athletic excellence but also nurtured a spirit of friendly competition and unity among the participating schools. Ritzbury’s sponsorship of the event reaffirms the company’s commitment to uplifting the youth and promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle in Sri Lanka.

February 29, 2024

Ritzbury, Sri Lanka’s favourite chocolate brand of CBL proudly partnered with the International Schools Athletic Championship (ISAC) as the principal sponsor that conclude recently at Sugasadasa Stadium. Beyond just celebrating the success of the event, it resonated with a thoughtful message of empowering the youth across the nation.

Recognising individual excellence, Dineth Weeraratne of Leeds International School set a new meet record in the boys’ 100m, earning Best Athlete and the Ritzbury Challenge Trophy for Best Male Athlete. Shenella Senevirathana of Gateway College secured gold in the girls’ 100m, earning Best Girl Athlete and the Ritzbury Challenge Trophy for Best Female Athlete.

Ritzbury is dedicated to nurturing the untapped potential of young athletes, providing unwavering support for their journey to success as aspiring champions in the world of sports

November 7, 2023

06 November 2023, Colombo: The Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Junior Schools Athletic Championship 2023 reached its finale on November 5th at the Sugathadasa Stadium. Proudly sponsored by Ritzbury, Sri Lanka’s Number 01 chocolate brand of Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL), this event marks another historic chapter in the annals of Sri Lanka’s school-level sports heritage.

Organised by the Sri Lanka Schools Athletic Association (SLSAA), the championship saw a remarkable turnout of 2,000 young athletes, competing across various age groups ranging from under 12 to under 15. Each participant earned their place through preliminary rounds held in Beliatta, Kandy, Bandaragama, and Jaffna, showcasing their incredible talents and determination. It is noteworthy that the preliminary events saw the participation of 15,000 athletes.

In terms of the winners of the Championship, Royal College Colombo with 44 points emerged winners of the boy’s category while Trinity College Kandy emerged as the runner up with 42.5 points. In the girl’s category, Ave Maria Convent Negombo won with 83 points and Lyceum Wattala secured runner up with 57 points. S Pribasith of St Thomas Prep College, High Jump 1.90m U15 (827 points) adjudged the best male athlete while c of Lyceum Wattala, Long Jump 5.64m (921 points) received the award for best female athlete.

Speaking at the event, CBL Foods International Marketing General Manager Nilupul De Silva said: “We are elated to have supported the Sir John Tarbat Schools Athletic Championship for more than a decade, with the objective of uplifting athletics at school level. Every year, we see even more enthusiasm and a growing talent pool of the best young athletes. In addition, as of previous years, we are delighted to give a helping hand to a group of promising school athletes nominated by the SLSAA with the hope of producing national-level athletes.”

SLSAA President Dr. Kusala Fernando said: “Ritzbury, as the sole sponsor of the Sir John Tarbat Schools Athletic Championship, has been influential in uplifting athletics at the school level. Ritzbury’s continuous commitment, despite many challenges, to supporting thousands of budding athletes to showcase their talent through this event should be commendable. We are also grateful to see more participation from the North and East, thanks to Ritzbury.

The brand took an inspiring step by arranging a preliminary round at the Dorreiuppa Stadium in Jaffna just last month. This initiative aimed to send a powerful message of empowerment, diversity, and inclusivity throughout Sri Lanka. Over 1,000 students from the North and East regions took part, reflecting Ritzbury’s commitment to uplift sportsmanship in the North and East of Sri Lanka, two provinces that have shown minimal participation in the sporting arena.

The highlight of this year’s event was the awarding of sports scholarships to deserving high performing young athletes. Year after year, Ritzbury selects 15 top athletes and awards them with scholarships in an effort to shine a global spotlight on their skills. Accordingly, K.L. Ayomal Akalanka (Ambagamuwa M.M.V), G.L. Arthavidu (D.S. Senanayaka V), R.P. Nilupul Pehesara (Vijitha M.M.V), M.K.N. Wickramasinghe (Wickramabahu N.S. Gampola), S. Hanshika Munasinghe (Ambagamuwa M.M.V), Thushen Mahindrarathna (Maris Stella C), G.W. Jathya Kirulu (Mahinda C), D. Pradeepani Wickkramasighe (Wickramabahu N.S.Gampola), T. Sandhil (St.Peter’s C.- Bambalapitiya), K.T. Nuhansha (Matara M.M.V), O.Kodikara (St.Lawrence’s C) and six students from LIS Wattala; S.Hanshaka, J.Wijethunga, S.Kularathna, S. Sadithya, received the sought-after scholarships as well.

October 6, 2023

05 October 2023, The North & East Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Junior Athletics Championship concluded triumphantly at Jaffna’s Dorreiuppa Stadium on October 4, 2023. This event, while celebrating its success, also championed a deeper message of empowerment, diversity, and inclusivity across Sri Lanka, further boosting Sri Lankan youth opportunities.

The overall championship for girls was secured by Dehiattakandiya National School with an impressive total of 81 points, earning them the title of champion. Bharathy Vidyalaya-Valluvarpuram claimed the runner-up position with 47 points, while Vembadi Girl’s High School secured 3rd place with 45 points. On the boys’ side, the championship title was clinched by Pallai Central College, amassing a total of 77.5 points. St. Xavier’s Boys College earned the runner-up position with 75 points, and Manipay Hindu College secured 3rd place with a commendable 52 points.

Recognising individual excellence, the Best Athlete of the Year for Girls was awarded to V. Thenisha from Saivapragasa Ladies Colleage, who achieved an impressive 4.83m in long jump. Similarly, A. Romexson Lambert from St.Anne’s Colleage -Vankalai was honoured as the Best Athlete of the Year for Boys, having achieved a remarkable 5.66m in his long jump event as well. It is noteworthy that this year, over 1,000 athletes from the North and East participated.

Ritzbury, Sri Lanka’s favourite chocolate brand of Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL), has always been committed to encouraging and developing young athletes. Recognizing the need to expand its reach and provide equal opportunities, Ritzbury took the initiative to organise the championship in Jaffna to reignite the passion for competition, determination, and grit among the students in the North and East regions, all while breaking down geographical barriers and promoting cultural inclusivity.

Nilupul de Silva, General Manager – Marketing of CBL Foods International Pvt Ltd, shared his thoughts on the significance of this event, stating, “We noticed that the participation of students from the North and East in the Sir John Tarbat Junior Athletics Championship was considerably lower than in other provinces. To address this imbalance and promote inclusivity in Sri Lanka’s sporting arena, we felt compelled to go to their regions and encourage the participation of these talented young athletes. Our aim was to ensure that every athlete from every corner of Sri Lanka has the opportunity to showcase their athletic talents.”

Furthermore, in an effort to encourage participation, winners were awarded with trophies, medals and certificates before the final, this is something that does not usually happen in regional events. As the championship drew to a close, the winners earned the honour of advancing to the prestigious 51st Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Athletic Junior Championship. This illustrious event, with its rich history, has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s school level sporting heritage, and Ritzbury’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes ensures that this legacy continues to thrive.

September 20, 2023

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20^th September 2023, Colombo: Ritzbury, Sri Lanka’s beloved chocolate brand of Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL), is delighted to announce the triumphant conclusion of the 34th Ritzbury Junior National Squash Championship 2023, held at the Ratmalana Air Force Squash Courts on September 17th, 2023.

With an unwavering dedication to the growth and promotion of squash on a national scale, Ritzbury has been the trusted sponsor of this prestigious championship for 15 consecutive years. Commencing on September 9th, this year’s event welcomed over 450 individual participants, marking a remarkable 40% increase in entries compared to the previous year. The tournament featured talented young boys and girls across six age categories: under 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, and 19, making it a true celebration of youth sportsmanship.

In the boys’ category, Nevindu Lakman from DS Senanayake College emerged as the Junior National Champion, followed by Sehath Perera of Royal College as the Runner-up, while Matheesha Wijesekara, also from Royal College, secured Third Place. On the girls’ side, it was Chanithma Sinalay from Sirimavo Bandaranaike Vidyalaya who claimed the title of Junior National Champion. Themini Palliyaguru, also representing Sirimavo Bandaranaike Vidyalaya, emerged as the Runner-up.

“The Ritzbury Junior National Squash Championship has firmly established itself as a significant highlight on the annual squash calendar. It has served as a fertile ground for nurturing emerging talent from various regions across the country. Ritzbury’s steadfast commitment to advancing the sport at the grassroots level, ensuring district-wise promotion, has been instrumental in facilitating increased participation and fostering the next generation of squash champions.” Sri Lanka Squash Federation (SLSF) President Dhammika Wijesundara said.

Meanwhile, Nilupul de Silva, General Manager Marketing, CBL Foods International (Pvt) Ltd added, “Ritzbury has continued to support the development of Squash in Sri Lanka for over a decade. We are elated to see a growth of interest in the sport, along with the sportsmen and women themselves showing exponential development. The results of this year’s champion stand as a testament to this.”

September 19, 2023

18 September 2023, Colombo: The 91st Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Senior Athletics Championship, which unfolded from the 13th to the 16th of this month at the Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo, recently came to an inspiring close. This annual event, powered by Ritzbury, once again showcased the nation’s finest young athletes.

Over the course of four thrilling days, more than 5,000 senior athletes from schools across Sri Lanka competed with passion and determination. The championship featured various events, including sprints, relays, hurdles, long jumps, and javelin throws, with athletes demonstrating exceptional skill and sportsmanship.

The Overall Championship for Girls was secured by A Rathnayaka Central College with an impressive total of 190 points, earning them Champion title. Lyceum International College – Wattala claimed the Runner-Up position with 150 points, while Sumana B V – Rathnapura secured 3rd Place with 51 points. On the Boys’ side, the championship title was clinched by Lyceum International College – Wattala, amassing a total of 136 points. St Benedict’s College – Colombo earned the Runner-Up position with 82 points, and St Joseph’s Vas College – Wennappuwa secured 3rd Place with a commendable 73 points.

Recognizing individual excellence, the Best Athlete of the Year 2023 for Girls was awarded to D M T D Karunarathne from A Rathnayaka Central College – Walala, who accumulated an impressive 1102 points. Similarly, K M Yasiru from Kahawaththa Central College was honoured as the Best Athlete of the Year 2023 for Boys, having achieved a remarkable 1078 points.

The Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Senior Athletics Championship has a rich history of nurturing talent and promoting sportsmanship. This year’s edition continued this tradition, offering a platform for young athletes to shine and pursue their dreams in the world of athletics.

Dr. Kusala Fernando, President of the Sri Lanka School Athletic Association, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Ritzbury for their unwavering support, saying, “Ritzbury has been the backbone of this championship for over a decade, and their commitment has been instrumental in its growth and success. This event not only promotes athletic excellence but also brings communities together, transcending boundaries.”

Ritzbury, Sri Lanka’s favourite chocolate brand, has been at the forefront of encouraging youth participation in sports. Nilupul De Silva, General Manager, Marketing of CBL Foods International Pvt Ltd., reiterated the brand’s commitment to fostering young sportsmen and women, stating, “We are immensely proud to be part of the Sir John Tarbat Senior Athletics Championship for the 11th consecutive year. Ritzbury believes in the potential of our young athletes, and we will continue to support them in their journey to success.”

The championship concluded with an award ceremony where outstanding athletes were recognized for their exceptional performances. The event was not only a testament to the athleticism of Sri Lanka’s youth but also a celebration of unity and sportsmanship.

September 4, 2023

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Ritzbury, the beloved chocolate brand by Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL) is once again empowering the much anticipated ‘Ritzbury Super 16 Junior Rugby Carnival 2023’ for the third year. This initiative further demonstrates Ritzbury’s dedication to nurturing the skill development of young sports talents in the country.

In its 14th consecutive year, the upcoming Super 16 Junior Rugby Carnival is set to feature an impressive participation of 112 teams representing 44 different schools, all competing in the Under 10 and Under 12 categories. The event will kick off with the first three rounds scheduled to take place at the Royal College Sports Complex, commencing on September 3rd. Subsequent rounds are slated for September 17th and October 1st.

The 4th round has been strategically planned for October 22nd in Kandy, with a deliberate intent to extend greater opportunities to schools and students in the Kandy region, ensuring their active participation in this prestigious event.

It is also worth noting that the purpose of the carnival is to advance rugby and give aspiring ruggerites a chance to showcase their talents in a friendly competition. The carnival does not crown a champion to inspire all players to participate in a sport that embodies grit, commitment, and true sportsmanship.

Speaking on Ritzbury’s contribution towards the Rugby carnival, Nilupul de Silva, General Manager of Marketing – CBL Foods International, said, “Hosting this event marks our ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of Sri Lankan sports talents. Ritzbury is dedicated to fostering sports development among our capable youth. We take immense pride in hosting the Ritzbury Super 16 Junior Rugby Carnival 2023, and we encourage all teams to bring out their best on the field.”

Commenting about the event, Shahid Sangani, Secretary – Organising Committee said, “The Super 16 Junior Rugby Carnival is thrilled to once again collaborate with Ritzbury, boosting junior Rugby talent in Sri Lanka. With 112 teams from 44 schools, this year’s participation is a remarkable success.”

With rugby’s popularity in Sri Lanka with high spectator engagement, Ritzbury is confident that its position as a market leader in the Sri Lankan chocolate industry will ensure a successful and exciting event this year as well.

July 20, 2023

18 July 2023, Colombo: Ritzbury, Sri Lanka’s favourite chocolate brand, sponsored yet another 13 Sri Lankan national athletes under the Ritzbury ‘Mawbimata Weerayek’ initiative. The team displayed several record-breaking performances at the 25^th Asian Athletics Championship, organised by the Asian Athletics Association which took place in Bangkok, Thailand from 12^th to 16^th July 2023.

At the Asian Athletics Championships, 18-year-old Tharushi Karunarathna, the current Asian Junior Champion, secured the gold medal in the 800m race with a time of 2:00:66 minutes. She set several records, including the New Asian Championship record, Asian Leader in both Junior and Senior categories, South Asian Junior Record, Sri Lanka Record and Sri Lanka Junior Record. This achievement marks the best performance by a Sri Lankan junior athlete. In the same event, Gayanthika Abeyrathna won a bronze medal.

Additionally, the men’s 4x400m relay team, consisting of Aruna Darshana, Rajitha Rajakaruna, Pabasara Niku, and Kalinga Kumarage, won the Gold Medal, setting a New Asian Championships record and a New Sri Lanka Record. Their performance also increased their chances of qualifying for the World Championships. Meanwhile, the women’s 4x400m relay team, comprising Nadeesha Ramanayaka, Sayuri Mendis, Nishendra Fernando, and Tharushi Karunarathna, achieved a New Sri Lanka Record and secured the highest medal position in the history of Sri Lanka’s women’s 4x400m relay.

Notably, Sri Lanka won Three gold medals, one silver, and three bronze medals overall at the championships.

Since 2011, Ritzbury has been identifying aspiring Sri Lankan athletes by becoming the sole sponsor of Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Athletics Championship. The sponsorship benefits more than 15,000 athletes per year. As an extension of the sponsorship, 15 of the most skilled and high potential athletes who took part in the championship were further financially supported by Ritzbury to reach national level athletics. Ritzbury “Mawbimata Weerayek”; the said scholarship programme; was initiated in 2019 as an extension of school level athletics, to support national level athletes with the aim of bringing back the glorious era of athletics in the nation. The support rendered by the initiative has contributed significantly to the growth and improvement of athletics in the country and has been recognized as a key contributor in uplifting sports in the nation.

With Sri Lanka having its best-ever campaign at the Asian Athletic Championships, ranking 4th in the overall medal tally, achieving the highest medal count, setting two Asian Championships records, five Sri Lanka records, one South Asian Junior Record, and one National Junior record and with 11 out of the 13-member team winning medals, it is clear that Ritzbury’s efforts to develop athletics in Sri Lanka has paid off.

June 21, 2023

20 of June 2023, Colombo: Ritzbury; Sri Lanka’s favourite chocolate brand of Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL); will serve as the sole sponsor of the prestigious Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Athletic Championship for the 11^th consecutive year. The Championship is one of the longest running athletic events in Sri Lanka’s sporting history and reaffirms the brand’s dedication to identifying and supporting young, aspiring athletes. Ritzbury partnered with the Sri Lanka School Athletic Association (SLSAA) and proudly announced the commencement of the championship at a press conference held on June 20th, 2023, at the Taj Samudra, Colombo.

The championship will kick off with the Ritzbury Relay Carnival 2023, taking place from June 24th to 26th at the Sugathadasa Stadium, Colombo, with the participation of more than 4000 children representing 200 schools. The 51st Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Athletic Junior Championship will encompass age groups ranging from Under 12 to under 15, while The 91st edition of the Senior Championship will feature age groups Under 16, 18, and 20, each divided into male and female categories.

The John Tarbat Junior Athletics Stage 1 will subsequently take place at various locations, including the Bogambara Stadium Kandy on July 7^th and 8^th, Beliaththa D.A Rajapaksa Sta dium on July 18^th and 19^th, Jaffna Municipal Grounds on August 10^thand 11^th , and the Bandaragama Public Ground from August 19^th to 21^st . It is estimated that over 20,000 students representing 600 schools across the country, regardless of race, ethnicity, or provincial divides, will participate in these events. The John Tarbat Senior Championship is scheduled to take place from September 12th to 16th, with the John Tarbat Junior Championship also taking place from November 3^rd to 5^th .

Nilupul de Silva, General Manager, Marketing of CBL Foods International Pvt Ltd., expressed the brand’s dedication to fostering young sportsmen and women, stating, “As the market leader in chocolates, Ritzbury is beyond honoured and privileged to partner with the Sir John Tarbat Athletic Championship once again. We believe in the potential of our young athletes and remain committed to supporting their journey to success.”

Dr. Kusala Fernando, President of the Sri Lanka School Athletic Association, expressed deep appreciation for Ritzbury’s sponsorship and highlighted its pivotal role in the championship’s success. “The support from Ritzbury is invaluable to the championship, ensuring its continued growth and prosperity. Over the years, Ritzbury has stood out as the key corporate entity responsible for the continued success of this sporting event, and it helps to develop the talents of young athletes scattered throughout the country,” said Dr. Fernando.

In addition to Ritzbury Sir John Tarbet Athletics Championship, Ritzbury is known as an active supporter of a wide range of sporting events in Sri Lanka including the Vidudaya Ritzbury Swimming Championship, Ritzbury Junior National Squash Championship, Ritzbury Junior National Rugby Championship and the SLTA Tennis Tens All Island School Kids TennisPlay Day. All these efforts made by the much-loved confectionary brand showcase its commitment towards developing the skills of the nation’s youth through sports.

May 31, 2023

30 May 2023, Colombo: The Vidudaya-Ritzbury Swimming Championship 2023 came to a successful conclusion recently. Organised and conducted by the Department of Physical Education, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, and solely sponsored by Ritzbury, Sri Lanka’s number one chocolate brand of Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL), the swimming championship was held at the Sri Jayewardenepura University Swimming Pool Complex. The championship showcased an extraordinary display of skill, sportsmanship, and exceptional performances from some of the country’s most promising swimmers.

St. Sebastian College swimmers exhibited their immense talent, earning them the Boys’ overall championship with an astounding 415 points. Their remarkable achievement was further highlighted by their triumph in the senior championship category. The Triton Aquatics’ Swimmers Club displayed their prowess as well, securing the second position with a commendable score of 337 points.

The Triton Aquatics swimmers clinched the Girls’ overall championship with an impressive tally of 329 points. Meanwhile, Anula Vidyalaya, Nugegoda secured the second place.

This year championship attracted over 1000 swimmers from over 300 schools and swimming sports clubs. Athletes came together through five age categories – Under 10, 12, 14, 16 and 18. The top three male and female Individual Winners were awarded with medals and certificates to recognize their hard work and all participants received participation certificates as well.

In addition to Swimming, Ritzbury is known as an active supporter of a wide range of sporting events in Sri Lanka including the Ritzbury Sir John Tarbet Athletics Championship, Ritzbury Junior National Squash Championship, Ritzbury Junior Rugby Carnival and the SLTA All Island School Kids Tennis Play Day. All these efforts are made by the much-loved confectionary brand, showcasing its commitment towards developing the skills of the nation’s youth through sports.

Older Posts

Rahula Boys and Dharmapala Girls win Ritzbury – Olcott Schools Relay Carnival

Dineth and Shenella secure top athlete titles by winning the Ritzbury challenge trophy at ISAC

Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Junior Schools Athletic Championship 2023 Triumphantly Concludes at Sugathadasa Stadium

Prestigious Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Athletics Championship expands to North and East for the first time

34th Ritzbury Junior National Squash Championship 2023 comes to a thrilling conclusion

Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Senior Athletics Championship 2023: Celebrating Excellence in Sports

Ritzbury Super 16 Junior Rugby Carnival Soars to an Excellent Start

Athletes empowered by Ritzbury ‘Mawbimata Weerayek’ bring glory to Sri Lanka at the Asian Athletics Championship 2023

Over 20,000 athletes to compete at the Ritzbury Sir John Tarbat Athletic Championship 2023

St. Sebastian College’s & Triton Aquatics’ star swimmers emerge victorious at Vidudaya-Ritzbury Swimming Championship 2023