International boat races have been widely promoted in Asia, Europe, the Americas, Australia and other parts of the world. The races are seen to be important vehicles in promoting cultural exchange and strengthening friendly ties between countries and are actively supported by the participating countries. Boat teams from Thailand have competed in several international boat events since 1985.

Recognising the importance of preserving Thailand's river-based cultural traditions, the Tourism Authority of Thailand initiated the kingdom's first long-boat race contest in 1986. Since 1988, a series of long-boat race contests have been held on the local and national level. With the growing popularity of the event, in September 1999, the first international boat race was held on the Chao Phraya River near the Rama IX Bridge in Bangkok. Since then, it has become an annual international event drawing the participation of boat teams from around the world.

The international long-boat races have also evolved into an important vehicle for the preservation of Thai culture and traditions and the promotion of tourism to Thailand. There's more to these boat-races than just the thrill of the race itself. The event is as much a colourful spectacle to experience.

The Thailand International Swan Boat Races and Long Boat Race Championship Thailand

The 2009 Thailand International Swan Boat Races and Long Boat Race Championships Thailand will be held on September 12-13, 2009, on the section of the Chao Phraya River at the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province.

Highlights

• The International Swan Boat Race - 22 paddlers
featuring 15 international teams with the American Swan Boat Association representing the United States of America; the Freemantle Swan Dragon Boat team from Australia; the Castle Peak Power Station DB (CLP Power Company) team from Hong Kong; the Nagasaki Team from Japan; the Pacific West Dragon Boat, PBCTB and Penang Forward Sports Club from Malaysia; Myanmar Rowing and Canoeing Federation (MRCF) from Myanmar and three teams from host country Thailand.


• Thai Traditional Long-boat Race - 55 paddlers

featuring eight teams from the various provinces around Thailand known for their prowess in traditional long-boat races. Powered by 55 paddlers, the race between Theppaitoon from Phitsanuloke, Sornsuwan from Ang Thong, Chao Mae Pradoothong from Chonburi, Chao Mae Langsuan from Chumphon, Thepnorasingh 88 from Saraburi, Sriyanont from Nakhon Pathom, Saoduangkaeow from Singh Buri and Mukdahan from the province of Mukdahan.


• Thai Traditional Long-boat Race - 30 paddlers

featuring 16 teams from the four regions of Thailand

Urged on by cheering crowds, the day at the boat-races is as much a colourful spectacle to watch. Between the races, there's time for a leisurely stroll around the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre.

Contact information:
TAT Tourism Information Call Centre
Please dial 1672

Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Office
Tel: +66 (0) 3524 6076-7
Fax: +66 (0) 3524 6078
E-mail: tatyutya@tat.or.th

Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre in Ayutthaya
Tel: +66 (0) 3536 6091