Traditional Buffalo Races and Lots of Fun

Chonburi vice Governor, Mr. Songphol Champasak, along with Miss Suamna Moothakit, Chonburi Municipality Mayor and TAT Chonburi Director Mr. Niti Kongkrut recently conducted a press release to promote the traditional 138th Chonburi Buffalo Races.

Miss Moothakit revealed that Chonburi locals believe that the buffalo is a useful animal that deserves great respect as it has been assisting people with agriculture for as long as anyone can remember. Before farm machinery became available, the buffalo was an essential part of agricultural process. In addition, the buffalo races have been organized in Chonburi for many years, as Thai people traditionally believed that natural disasters such as fire and severe plague would occur if the buffalo races were not held. This traditional event attracts significant numbers of residents and foreign tourists every year.

It is a great feast for the eyes to spot jockeys riding their respective buffaloes, urging them on to the finish line. A truly exciting sport for the people of Pattaya, the Chonburi Buffalo Races is an event that people look forward to every year. Held during the months of October or November, the water buffaloes are decorated with colorful clothes, ornaments and flower garlands before competing in the events.

Along with Chonburi Buffalo Races, other events occur including the buffalo fancy dress contest, as well as, the Miss Farmer Pageant. Elaborately dressed in silk and satin, water buffaloes are taken in processions to determine the best-dressed and healthiest buffalo of the group. The contest for the ‘farm maiden’ is also very engaging and attracts many spectators.

The Chonburi Buffalo Races has its origin in the buffalo trade that took place in the past in Chonburi, as Chonburi used to be a major trade center in the eastern region of Thailand. The water buffaloes accompanied the merchants and pulled along the cargo carts. After the end of the trading days, merchants indulged in fun and enjoyment by arranging the buffalo contest before returning home.

Other interesting activities to celebrate the event include OTOP exhibitions, a singing contest, a buffalo village exhibition, traditional games, displays and concerts by many of Thailand's famous singers.