I deeply regret to announce the passing of Mr. Summa Navaratnam. Born on the 21st of May 1925, in Araly, Vaddukoddai, Jaffna, he captained Athletics and Rugby at Royal College. He represented Ceylon in Athletics, where he earned the moniker “Fastest Man in Asia”. He also represented Ceylon in Rugby. Mr. Navaratnam captained the CR & FC Rugby team that won the Clifford Cup in 1954. He was twice elected as the President of the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union. Mr. Navaratnam coached Royal College Rugby for several years. The Grand Stand of the Royal College Sports Complex is named after him. Perhaps his everlasting legacy will be the Summa Navaratnam Rugby Academy, which coaches junior players and is accessible to any child. Mr. Navaratnam’s contribution to Royal College is immeasurable. On behalf of the Royal College Union, I pay homage to Mr. Navaratnam and express our condolences to his family.
Aruna Samarajewa
Secretary
Royal College Union
