Triumph in Vietnam: Chandrika de Silva Secures Over 45 Women's Singles Gold and Dominates Badminton Asia Senior Open
Former National champion Chandrika de Silva showcased her badminton prowess at the Badminton Asia Senior Open held at the Tien Son Sports Complex in Danang, Vietnam over the weekend. Chandrika claimed the women's singles title in the Over 45 category, adding another impressive feat to her illustrious career.
Representing Seylan Bank, Chandrika faced off against India's Yasmeen Shaikh in the final, delivering a commanding performance with a convincing score of 21-7, 21-9. This victory secured the gold medal for Chandrika, underscoring her dominance in the women's singles competition.
Lakshmi Punchihewa, the Assistant Secretary of SLB, exhibited remarkable skill in the Over 65 women's singles category, earning a hard-fought bronze medal in a competitive field. Additionally, in the Over 80 and Over 110 combined age women's doubles, the formidable pairing of Chandrika and Lakshmi once again stood out, clinching the bronze medal.
The mixed doubles category saw Rohan De Silva, the President of the SLB, and Chandrika joining forces to claim the gold medal in the combined age category. This marked Chandrika's third achievement at the tournament, having previously secured two gold medals and a bronze.
In the Over 45 men's singles category, Manjula Fernando showcased outstanding performances, earning a well-deserved silver medal. Despite a closely contested final, Fernando ultimately succumbed to the top-seeded player from Indonesia, Jhonu Hidayat.
The tournament, organized by the Badminton Asia Confederation, brought together former National shuttlers, highlighting the competitive spirit and skill within the badminton community. Chandrika de Silva's remarkable achievements underscore her continued excellence on the badminton court.
In conclusion, Chandrika de Silva's outstanding performance at the Badminton Asia Senior Open in Vietnam stands as a testament to her enduring skill and dominance in the sport. Securing the Over 45 women's singles title with a resounding victory in the final, Chandrika added another gold medal to her impressive collection. Her prowess extended beyond singles play, as she, alongside Lakshmi Punchihewa, clinched a bronze in the Over 80 and Over 110 combined age women's doubles.
Chandrika's versatile success continued in the mixed doubles category, where she, partnered with Rohan De Silva, claimed the gold medal in the combined age division. With a total of three medals—two gold and one bronze—Chandrika showcased her exceptional talent and determination on the badminton court.
The tournament, organized by the Badminton Asia Confederation, provided a platform for former National shuttlers to exhibit their skills. Chandrika's achievements, coupled with Manjula Fernando's commendable silver medal in the Over 45 men's singles category, highlighted the competitive spirit among participants.
Chandrika de Silva's remarkable performance not only adds to her personal accolades but also serves as an inspiration within the badminton community. Her achievements underscore the enduring commitment to excellence and the competitive edge that defines the sport at the senior level.