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 11th or 12th lunar months (around September or October).When the water level is at its highest.At this time, racing is held almost nationwide, notably in Phichit, Phitsanuloke, Nan, Angthong, Pathumthani, Surat Thani and Ayutthaya etc.Traditionally, long-boat racing is held as an annual event by provinces 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 Ayutthaya period some 600 years ago.However, boat racing in those days was just only a means to keep boat men 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 festive 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..