DINIDU, a Colombo 07-based fine jewellery boutique, has been named the Principal Sponsor of the 55th Royal–Thomian Regatta 2026, bringing together two seemingly different worlds united by discipline and the pursuit of excellence.
Scheduled for October 23, the much anticipated regatta will see the rowing crews of Royal College, Colombo and S. Thomas’ College, Mt. Lavinia continues their historic rivalry, celebrating a sporting tradition built on dedication and camaraderie.
The partnership was officially announced at a press conference on October 9, attended by representatives from both schools, the Joint Organising Committee, sponsors and distinguished guests.
While fine jewellery and competitive rowing may appear to have little in common, both demand extraordinary attention to detail and a commitment to working towards excellence. A finely crafted piece of jewellery is shaped by patience, technical skill and precision. On the water, a rowing crew must bring together individual strength, perfect rhythm and seamless coordination to achieve a shared goal.
Reflecting on these parallels during the press conference, Dinidu Tennakoon, the founder of DINIDU, remarked:
“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.”
Both disciplines also share a deep respect for tradition while continually striving to achieve new standards. For DINIDU, this connection makes the sponsorship especially meaningful, bringing the values of fine jewellery craftsmanship into a sporting arena where dedication and collective effort are equally celebrated.
Beyond the shared values, the partnership holds a personal significance for the founder of DINIDU, a proud Royalist who views this as an opportunity to give back to his alma mater.
“As a proud Royalist, partnering DINIDU with my alma mater is deeply personal,” he shared, describing it as a privilege to associate the brand with an institution that has helped shape generations of young men through building character, leadership and sportsmanship.
Beyond a contest between two rowing crews, the Royal–Thomian Regatta represents generations of sporting heritage, bringing together students, alumni and supporters through a shared appreciation for competition and the friendships formed along the way.
By supporting the 55th edition, DINIDU hopes to celebrate these traditions while recognising the determination and commitment of young athletes who dedicate themselves to their sport.
With another chapter of the Royal–Thomian rivalry set to unfold on October 23, DINIDU wishes both crews an unforgettable regatta, where the competitive spirit is matched by friendship, respect and pride in the traditions of both schools.