JDB (left) and Phanthamith Group boat crews power their way to the finish line in the men’s traditional boat race on the Mekong River in Vientiane on Wednesday.

JDB powers to victory, retaining the champion title in the country’s biggest boat race

Residents of Vientiane and visitors from the provinces on Wednesday excitedly lined the Mekong riverbank to watch the close-fought final race between the Joint Development Bank boat crew and the Phanthamith Group team from Xayabouly province.
The thrilling race was a fitting end to the annual Vientiane Boat Racing Festival, the biggest one in the country, which was part of celebrations to mark the end of Buddhist Lent.
Boat crews from Vientiane, Chanthabouly district, and many other locations enthusastically participated in the event, supported by numerous sponsors.

Chanthabouly district officials present a cup to the winning JDB crew.

The Boat Racing Festival took place from October 4-8 and featured a lively mix of activities, including concerts and numerous stalls selling traditional snacks, clothing, and a wide range of other goods.
Fa Ngum Road, Chao Anouvong Park and the surrounding streets were packed with people who turned out to shop for a bargain and enjoy the fun atmosphere, revelling in the opportunity to meet up with friends and party.
The back-to-back End of Buddhist Lent and the boat racing festivals were organised by the Chanthabouly district office.
This year, five men’s traditional boat crews, three men’s sport boat crews, and three women’s traditional boat crews competed in the races.
The men’s crew sponsored by the Joint Development Bank succeeding in hanging on to the championship title they earned last year, winning a cup and a cash prize.
Second place went the Phanthamith Group team from Xayabouly province, who also received a trophy and a cash prize.
The Sengchaleunxay Group’s men team won the modern-style boat race, while the 3B team triumphed in the women’s traditional boat race category.
This year, Khammuan, Bolikhamxay, Savannakhet, Xayabouly and Champasak provinces also organised boat races on the Mekong to celebrate the end of Buddhist Lent, with offerings made to temple monks on Tuesday.
Lao Brewery Co., Ltd. donated more than 200 million kip to help cover the costs of the boat races.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update October 9, 2025)