Sri Lanka’s whiz-kid golfer Reshan Algama and seasoned Chalitha Pushpika to tee off at the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship in Japan:
Sri Lanka’s golfing community has much to celebrate as two of its top amateur golfers, Reshan Algama from Colombo International School and Chalitha Pushpika of the Navy, prepare to represent the country on the global stage.
Both golfers have been directly invited to participate in the prestigious Asia Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC), which will take place in Tokyo, Japan, from October 3 to 7
The invitation marks a historic achievement for Sri Lankan golf as Algama and Pushpika aim to leave their mark in one of the world’s most coveted amateur tournaments.
First held in 2009, the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) has become one of the premier events in amateur golf, attracting elite players from the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. The tournament is organized by the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC), the Masters Tournament and The R&A.
Its significance lies in the incredible opportunities it offers, with the champion earning a ticket to compete in both the Masters Tournament and The Open Championship – two of the most prestigious events in professional golf.
For Sri Lanka, the presence of Algama and Pushpika on this international platform speaks volumes about the growth and potential of the nation’s golfing talent.
At just 16 years old, Reshan Algama has already earned a reputation as a golfing prodigy in Sri Lanka. Despite his young age, Algama’s performances on the amateur circuit have been nothing short of impressive. Over the course of 2023 and 2024, he secured seven tournament victories, a remarkable feat for someone still considered a junior golfer.
Reflecting on his achievements and upcoming challenge at the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship, Algama shared: “It’s been an incredible journey so far, but this is only the beginning. To have the opportunity to compete at the AAC is a dream come true. Playing alongside the best amateurs in the region will be an amazing experience and I want to make my country proud.”
His invitation to the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship comes after a series of notable achievements, including becoming the highest-ranked amateur golfer in Sri Lanka for 2023. Algama’s participation in the AAC is particularly significant because it makes him the youngest Sri Lankan ever to compete in the tournament.
Earlier this year, Algama made history by becoming the first Sri Lankan to compete in the US Junior Amateur Championship in Detroit. His inclusion in the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship is another testament to his rising stature in the world of amateur golf.
“Competing internationally is always special,” Algama added. “Every experience is a learning opportunity and I feel that playing in events like the US Junior Amateur and now the AAC is helping me grow as a golfer and as a person.”
Chalitha Pushpika, at 30 years old, brings experience and consistency to Sri Lanka’s golf team. As a seasoned amateur golfer and a key figure in the Navy, Pushpika has represented the country in numerous international competitions. His participation in the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship will be another opportunity for him to showcase his skills and dedication on the world stage.
Pushpika shared his excitement about competing in Japan once again: “The AAC is always a challenge, but it’s one I look forward to. Competing at this level pushes you to elevate your game. For me, it’s about staying focused and making the most of every round.”
Having participated in multiple editions of the AAC in the past, Pushpika’s familiarity with high-level competition gives him an edge. His seasoned approach and leadership complement Algama’s youthful exuberance, making them a formidable duo for Sri Lanka.
The inclusion of Reshan Algama and Chalitha Pushpika in the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship highlights the progress Sri Lankan golf has made in recent years. Their invitation to compete in such a prestigious tournament is a testament to their hard work, dedication and the growing reputation of Sri Lankan golf on the international scene.
For Algama, this championship offers invaluable experience as he competes against the top amateur golfers from the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. Pushpika, on the other hand, continues to build on his already extensive international career, further solidifying his role as one of Sri Lanka’s top golfers.
Algama, looking forward to the challenge ahead, remarked: “Representing Sri Lanka on such a big stage is an honor. Every swing I take, I know I’m not just playing for myself – I’m playing for everyone back home who believes in me.”
Their participation in the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship is a source of immense pride and excitement, as they represent not just themselves but also the aspirations of aspiring golfers back home.
Their journey to Tokyo signifies a pivotal moment for Sri Lankan golf and their performances in the AAC will be closely watched by fans and enthusiasts both in Sri Lanka and around the world.
