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.

Waterway Heritage

Water and the lives of the Thai people have always been inextricably related. Throughout history, Thai people have built their homes and communities along rivers and canals, reflecting their dependence on waterways for cultivation, communications and trade. Boats have been used as a major vehicle, leading to the birth of diverse traditions associated with waterways.

During the high-tide season when the Tot Kathin merit making is held, Thai villagers enjoy playing “Phleng Rua”, or boat song, and gather for this song game comprising an exchange of impromptu verses sung in a courting dialogue.
Boat racing is another exciting spectacle which takes place during the high-tide season in September and October Long boat races are very popular and they require the participation of large numbers of crew to help in rowing at a rapid pace to reach the finish line.

Long boat racing takes place in almost all parts of Thailand. It has developed from a small-scale race at villager or sub-district level to a large scale one. It is in Phichit Province in the North that the vitality and carnival atmosphere of the races is best seen. The Phichit boat race is held annually around the Wat Tha Luang pier, with the winner’s cup donated by His Majesty The King. The event features international boat races, a contest of beautiful boats, a contest of cheer teams, and folk performances.

The long boat races are described excitedly through loudspeakers. The sounds of drums and crew members are heard all over the waterway. It is an exciting event for visitors and locals alike. Not to be ignored are the colorful cheer teams who add liveliness to the races. As soon as the emcee announces the end of the race, a great roar of cheering goes up from the winners and the spectators. This impressive picture leaves a lasting memory on the visitors.

Boat racing is a waterway heritage passed on from the old days. It boosts the unity of the people sharing the same waterway and brings together people from different localities for then annual cultural event. Boat racing is held in many provinces which are eager to conserve the tradition for younger generations.

Long boats were traditionally built for carrying Buddha images in water-borne processions during the kathin (merit-making) ceremony. However, they are also designed for racing. Victory brought fame to the village or temple that owned the boat. The boats thus have a long and sleek appearance.

The long boats are usually made by hollowing out a tree trunk. Wooden planks were added as seats for the oarsmen. Before each race, the boat is repainted, with the bow and stern decorated to resemble a lion or other creatures. The outside of the boat is also waxed to reduce drag and increase the ease with which the vessel glides through the water.

A long boat has a crew ranging from three to thirty persons, sometimes more. Depending on the occasion, the crew may consist of all males, all females, or a mixed crew. The owner of the boat carefully selects his crew and training often begins months before a race. Each oarsman is given a permanent position on the boat, opposite another of similar physical attributes. The oarsmen manning the bow and stern are carefully chosen for they are responsible for steering the boat through the water. Victory or defeat in a race depends entirely on their dexterity and judgment.