Long boat racing

Long-boat Racing is one of the traditional rites which marks the end of the Buddhist Rains Retreat. It mainly takes place in the 11 th or 12 th lunar months (around September or October). When the water level is at its highest. At this time,racing is held almost nationwide,notably in PhichitPhisanuloke, Nan , Angthong, Pathumthani, Surat Thani and Ayuttathaya etc

Traditionally,long-boat racing is held as an annual event by provices with a major waterway flowing through. It is not restricted to any particular region. At present,long-boat racing is considered as a national sport,its history can be traced back to Ayuthaya period some 600 years ago However ,boat racing in those days was justs only a mean to keep boat means physically and mentally fit for national defence.

Usually racing boats are made from dugout tree trunks and can accommodate up to 60 oarsmen sitting in a double row. The oarsmen usually dress in the same colour.The festival event draws several hundreds of local and foreign spectators who watch the race along both sides of the riverbank enthusiastically . At the end,trophies and prizes are given to the winning teams.

Lanna Boat Races Nan October 2001

Lanna Boat Races form part of the local kathin religious ceremony traditionally held during the Ok Phansa, the end of the Buddhist Lent. The races on the Nan River are colorful and unique because the racing boats are brightly decorated with imaginati vely designed prows. The cheering squads on the river bank are usually boisterous and plenty of fun. The boat races are also meant to celebrate the black ivory, an age-old object of Nan Province.

With permission form : Thanapol Chadchaidee. (1994). Essays on Thailand. Bangkok : Thaichareunkanpem.