07/09/2025
The Ananda College Rowing Crew had the honour of hosting Mr. Ranjit Santiago, Distinguished Old Anandian, founding member of Ananda College Old Boys' Association - East Coast USA, and long-standing patron of the Ananda College Rowing Crew, during his recent visit to Sri Lanka. A proud member of the Class of 1966, Mr. Santiago’s journey from Ananda College to a distinguished international career in the pharmaceutical industry reflects the discipline and ambition he continues to champion in the next generation. Together with his close friend, the late Mr. Mike Udabage, he helped catalyse the modern era of rowing at Ananda and, through the Udabage–Santiago Trust, has sustained the programme with resources, mentorship, and an unwavering belief in excellence.
Addressing the athletes, Mr. Santiago emphasised the qualities that underpin enduring performance, precision, humility, and consistency, reminding the crew that success is measured not only by results, but by character and service to others. Being the second Anandian to join the sport of Rowing from Ananda College he shared words of wisdom and encouragement.
The Ananda College Rowing Crew extends sincere gratitude to Mr. Ravi Jayaratne and Mr. Chamath Athulathmudali for helping bring this together, and to the leadership of the Old Anandians Rowing Wing, President Manilka Gunaratne and Vice President Harintha Thilakaratne, for their continued support and steadfast commitment to the development of rowing at Ananda.
