Royal–Thomian rivalry

Both were founded in the 19th century, and between them they have produced a large number of Sri Lanka's most prominent scientists, writers and politicians, as well as noted figures in many other fields.

Royal and S. Thomas' have been careful to preserve many parts of their proud history, retaining a number of traditions.

This annual cricket match is played for the D. S. Senanayake Memorial Shield, and is affectionately known as the Battle of the Blues due to the colours of each school's flag.

[3][4] The originators of this first match were three staunch Old Royalists, namely Mr. Lanka de Silva, Air Vice Marshal Harry Goonatilleka and Brigadier S. D. N. Hapugalle.

The Boat Race which is a coxed fours event initially began in 1962 and by 1966, it broadened out to give rise to the regatta having a card of eight events, made up of 2 Single Sculls, 2 Doublesculls, 2 Coxless Pairs and 2 Coxed Fours which the 'Boat Race' is the most prestigious.

Although both schools began playing hockey in the 1960s and occasionally met in tournaments, the official encounter was introduced in the year 2000.

Lavinia) and since 2007 played in a neutral venue (Sugathadasa Stadium Swimming Pool) in the first and second week of October.

The shield was presented in memory of Sir Cyril de Zoysa, the former president of the Senate of Ceylon.

Overall champions of the meet will be awarded the Creon Corea Memorial Challenge Trophy named after the late swimmer who represented Royal College in the early 1980s.

A unique feature of this meet will be the relay events included for old boys of the two schools and the champions will be awarded the OTSC Challenge Trophy.

[8] The annual Royal Thomian Sailing Regatta began in 2014 for the prestigious Ranil Dias Memorial Trophy.

The Thomian captained by D.N.D Dias won a hard-fought game against royal on 4 November 2016 at Cr&FC grounds Colombo.