The spirit and energy of boat racing returned to Bangkok with the start of the Elephant Boat Race at Bangkok Riverside Fest 2023, taking place from 3-5 February 2023 by the banks of the Chao Phraya River.
This year, eight men’s and women’s teams, are competing for coveted trophies. The King’s Cup trophy graciously granted by His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua will be presented to the winner of the men’s tournament while the winner of the women’s tournament will receive Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt’s trophy.
The atmosphere on the water was off to an electric start with the first men’s exhibition race, aweing the audience with excitement. In addition to the unique elephant-themed boat race, action on the river includes tug-of-war style boat battles, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) and kayaking competitions, open to both amateur and professional kayakers and stand-up paddle boarders. The competition takes place over the weekend with the coveted awards ceremony on Sunday evening.
Bangkok Riverside Fest is also packed with on-land activities from afternoon to night, including: an array of international and local food and drink vendors; a flea market; a kids fun park; VIP tents; concerts by top Thai artists such as PiXXiE, POLYCAT, VIOLETTE WAUTIER, MEAN, LIPTA, 4EVE, patrickananda, Wanyai Feat and Mon Monik, and; live DJs.
From land, to the river to the sky, the action continues upwards with the arrival of the Thai Kite Festival Association with beautiful kites from four regions of Thailand and dazzling fireworks lighting up the night sky.
Bangkok Riverside Fest is aiming to raise significant charitable funds through ticket sales that will be donated to support elephant conservation projects.
For more information, please visit www.bangkokriversidefest.com.
List of sponsored Elephant Boat Race 2023 teams:
Men’s teams:
1. Kasetsart University – Chang Beverage
2. Klong Phai – JW Blue Label
3. Royal Navy – Indorama Ventures PCL
4. Thailand National Sports University Lampang Campus – Bangkok Bank
Women’s teams:
1. Kasetsart University – UOB Thailand
2. Klong Phai – Thai Union Group PCL
3. Thailand National Sports University Chiang Mai Campus – Pricewaterhousecoopers
4. Nawaminthrachinuthit Triam Udomsuksa Pattanakarn School – Casillero del Diablo