Debating champs

The English Literary Association of Royal College recently concluded the Vijitha Weerasinghe Challenge Shield Debating Competition 2007, on December 22, at the Royal College Union Auditorium. Well-known as a certain tradition within the oldest of clubs in Royal College, and as a prestigious competition by its own right, the Viji th Weerasinghe Debating Competition was staged for the upteenth time with much pomp and ceremony.

This event was held to honour the exemplary life of its namesake, Mr. Vijitha Weerasinghe. Hailed as the ultimate Royalist, for the immense service rendered to college, Mr. Weerasinghe was a source of inspiration to all Royalists, both young and old. Dedicating over 70 years to College and working tirelessly towards safekeeping it's unique history and legacy, Mr. Weerasinge served to bridge the gap between the past and the present. He sought to harmonise change and development with traditions and values, and this earned him the respect and admiration of all. Mr. Viji proved instrumental in uplifting the standard of English within College, especially in Drama and Debating. Thus the organizers wished to dedicate this as a lasting tribute to his exalted name.

The tournament itself comprised of 12 of the best schools in the debating arena. After tussling for survival in 3 preliminary rounds, 8 Quarterfinalists were chosen. More debates ensued and 4 schools emerged as the semi finalists. These were Asian International School, Bishop's College, Ladies College and S. Thomas' College. After the Semi Finals were staged, the Finalists were chosen with the greatest difficulty, amidst stiff competition. The finalists of the competition were Ladies College and S. Thomas' College. These two teams had endured a series of challenging and exigent debates and through their own skill and dexterity proved to be the crème la crème of English Debating.

The topic for the Finals was 'It is the Tempter, not the Tempted who sins the most.' After much consideration and deliberation on the part of the Judges S. Thomas' College emerged as the champions of the competition.