The 17th Annual Long Boat Racing Championships, titled the “Battle for the River King,” took place this weekend at Khao Tao Reservoir, drawing hundreds of participants and spectators to celebrate one of Hua Hin’s most cherished cultural events.
The competition, held on November 9th and 10th, showcased traditional long boat racing with categories ranging from 55-rower teams to a unique “Blindfolded Rowing” event, all competing for the Prachuap Khiri Khan Governor’s Cup.
The opening ceremony on Saturday was led by Prachuap Khiri Khan Governor Somkid Chanthamrik. Attendees included key provincial figures, such as Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sasithorn Chanthamat, President of the Red Cross Chapter of Prachuap Khiri Khan; Mr. Sitthichai Sawatsan, Deputy Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan; Mr. Nopporn Wutthikul, Mayor of Hua Hin Municipality; Ms. Jirawan Boonrith, Deputy Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan Office; and Ms. Wasana Srikanjana, President of the Hua Hin-Cha-am Tourism Business Association.
In his opening remarks, Governor Somkid highlighted the importance of the long boat race in promoting regional heritage, tourism, and economic development. He noted the event’s role in preserving local traditions and uniting diverse communities through shared cultural celebrations.
The two-day event began with qualifying rounds on November 9th, leading to the finals on November 10th. Races spanned five main categories, including 55-rower, 40-rower, and 30-rower teams, a 7-rower community category, and a unique race featuring “Deaf-Headed – Blind-Tailed” boats, where rowers and steers were blindfolded. Races started at approximately 9 a.m. each day, attracting crowds from across the province and beyond.
In addition to the boat races, the event featured a local market with food and crafts from Hua Hin communities, activity booths, and live music performances, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. The event was broadcast by Thai PBS as part of its series highlighting cultural events throughout Thailand, showcasing Hua Hin’s scenic landscapes and festive atmosphere.
The championships concluded with an awards ceremony, where Deputy Mayor Atichart Chaisri presented trophies to the winning teams. Winners in each category were as follows:
- 55-rower: Red Bull Phet Nawa
- 55-rower Group B: Queen Phet Dara
- 40-rower: Chayaporn
- 30-rower: Queen Thongkham Thep Chalothorn
- 30-rower Group B: Beautiful City of Phet
- 7-rower: Khao Tao Community 1
- Deaf-Headed – Blind-Tailed: Khao Tao Community
With its growing reputation, the Hua Hin Municipality has affirmed its commitment to making the long boat race an annual tradition.
