PADDLING FOR THE PRIZE

Sixteen international teams from 10 countries will compete in the “Thailand International Swan Boat Race 2015” to be held on Chao Phraya River at Suan Luang Rama VIII Park, near Rama VIII Bridge, this weekend from 9am-5pm.

Organised by Tourism Authority of Thailand, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the Rowing and the Canoeing Association of Thailand, the 10th edition of the race will see teams from China, Hong Kong, Iran, Korea, Macao, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, UK and also Thailand.

Each team has 22 paddlers and will compete in a 500m four-lane race course. The winning teams will be awarded royal trophies and cash prizes worth 2 million baht in total.

The event will provide a glimpse into how Thai river life is celebrated and also highlights other attractions along the river, including Phra Sumen Fortress, Wat Sam Phraya and the Bank of Thailand Museum housed in the mansion of Bang Khunphrom Palace.

The event will be open for public viewing free of charge and it will be broadcast live on Thairath TV Channel 32 on Sunday from 3pm-5pm.

Visit www.thaifest.org.