Sri Lanka Army Dominates Inaugural Lanka Ride 2026
January 20, 2026The inaugural edition of Lanka Ride 2026, Sri Lanka’s premier multi-stage cycling tour, concluded in grand style on 18 January 2026.
The three-day international-standard event, organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, showcased exceptional endurance, speed and tactical brilliance as cyclists competed across diverse terrains of the island.
Conducted from 16 to 18 January 2026, the tour covered an approximate total distance of 448 km over three demanding stages, connecting key cities and historic regions of Sri Lanka.
On the opening stage on 16 January 2026, riders compete over a 105 km route from Colombo (Lake House) to Kandy (Gannoruwa), featuring rolling terrain and early climbs. Stage Two, held on 17 January 2026, extended over 135.5 km from Kandy to Anuradhapura. The final and longest stage on 18 January 2026 spanned a challenging 208 km from Anuradhapura to Colombo’s Independence Square via Puttalam Road, providing a thrilling conclusion to the event.
Sri Lanka Army cyclist Craftsman A.D.S. Perera of the Sri Lanka Electrical and Mechanical Engineers emerged as the standout performer of Lanka Ride 2026, clinching both the prestigious King of the Mountain (KOM) title and the Best Sprinter Award, an exceptional double that highlighted his all-round dominance throughout the race. He also secured the overall first place of Lanka Ride 2026.
Further strengthening the Army’s success, Lance Corporal H.W.M. Sandaruwan Pinthu of the Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment secured the overall third place, while Corporal R.T.C. Dayanandana of the Sri Lanka Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, who served as team captain, emerged victorious in the third stage.
Adding to these individual achievements, the Sri Lanka Army Cycling Team claimed the Best Team Award, reflecting their superior teamwork, consistency and tactical strength throughout the competition. The team comprised six cyclists.
Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage, M.P., Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Hon. Dinindu Saman Hennayake, M.P., Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs and Major General K.P. Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) WWV RSP VSV USP ndc psc, M.P., Deputy Minister of Defence graced the final award ceremony.
Courtesy - www.army.lk