PRESIDENTS BOAT RACE

The President’s Trophy Boat Race, held every year on 1 November, is a major event in Kollam that attracts thousands of people from all walks of life. As a prestigious and renowned water sport event in Kerala, the race puts up a tight fight between famous snake boats for the coveted trophy. There are several heats preceding the final and different types of boats compete in each of them. The event is held every year on the palm-fringed, picturesque Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam where thousands of spectators assemble and roar and cheer their favourite boat to finish first. The race is the only one with the distinction of being a regatta in the country held in the name of the President of India. Hundreds of oarsmen throw their oars in unison to the fast paced rhythm of ‘vanchipattu’ (song of the boats men) and row to spectacular finish. The event attracts thousands of men and women from even far off places including overseas.