Krabi Traditional Boat Race

Traditional Boat of Reu Hua Tong

The crews of 12 paddlers in long boats competed along the river passing the Khanaab Nam pier in Krabi town. They entered the annual Krabi Traditional Boat Races competition racing for a trophy donated by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. It was such a spectacular scene amidst natural beauty, as it has a beautiful mountain as back drop. The Khanaab Nam Mountain is Krabi’s tourism logo. Keeratisak Phukawluan, Krabi Mayor, said: “The traditional boat of Reu Hua Tong became part of Krabi tourism. Today the logo of the boat is all over local tourist sites. The boat race event brings out local wisdom under the cooperation of all parties, especially local government. We proudly present the special type of boats which has long been present in these waters.” The cooperative determination of each crew is contributed in rhythms and unity moving the boats forwards, with a pointed head on the bow or front. The high front part of these type of boats is locally called Reu Hua Tong, said to be a special character as it mobilizse well amidst waves and glides the boat to its destination or in this case the finish line. The Leader of the Singsompop team said: “During the race we control the rhythm by sound. If one misses a beat or shout, it can cause disruption so either 10 or 20 of us must shout at the same time. Its like the power to control and mobilize the boat, slower or quicker.” The Hua Thong boat is originated in Krabi. Its made of wood with a main purpose for fishing.. They competed for a trophy donated by HRH Princess Mahachakri Sirindhorn. People say the boat signifies local wisdom as it can be a tool for daily routine careers and become a local identity. The boats today are preserved and maintained to use in the tourism industry. The long boats can be found even though some are adapted by adding engines to replace the paddlers to serve todays transport. The Krabi Mayor added: “Locally the boat is recognized as the legend which lives along with the locality and tourism. We link the boats with local studies into classrooms to revitalize the local wisdom. This enables the younger generation to get to know and maintain the tradition for a long time to come.” The annual boat race event hence, not only promote local water sports, but it plays vital part in keeping alive the local tradition and show off local identity to visitors to Krabi as well.

TEXT SOURCE : Andaman News NBT TV
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