Vientiane: The 2025 annual traditional boat racing competition concluded successfully on October 8, 2025, at Tha Vat Chan in Chanthabuly District, Vientiane. The event was graced by Mr. Anouphap Tounalom, Secretary of the Vientiane Party Committee and Mayor of Vientiane, and drew thousands of enthusiastic spectators along the Mekong River.

According to Lao News Agency, the highlight of the competition saw the JDB Joint Development Bank team capturing the championship title in the Men’s Traditional Boat category. Alongside this victory, the Seng Chaleunxay Group Family Company triumphed in the Men’s 55-Rowers Modified Boat category.

This year’s Ork Phansa (End of Buddhist Lent) and Traditional Boat Racing Festival featured more than ten traditional and modified boat teams, creating a festive and competitive atmosphere. In addition to the races, visitors enjoyed a variety of activities, including exhibitions, product promotions, and games. Hundreds of stalls offered One District One Product (ODOP) goods, general clothing, local food such as khao lam (bamboo sticky rice) and grilled chicken, as well as nightly live performances that added to the celebration’s vibrancy.

The official results for the 2025 boat race were as follows: In the Men’s Traditional Boat category, the JDB Joint Development Bank secured first place, receiving a perpetual trophy, a cash prize trophy, and 40 million LAK. The Phanthamit Group Company from Xayabouly Province claimed second place with a cash prize trophy and 30 million LAK, while Isuzu Lao Champas Boat Racing took third place with a cash prize trophy and 25 million LAK.

In the Women’s Traditional Boat category, 3B Company won the top spot with a cash prize trophy and 40 million LAK, followed by Tawan Tai Fa in second place with a cash prize trophy and 30 million LAK. In the Men’s 55-Rowers Modified Boat category, the Seng Chaleunxay Group Family Company emerged victorious with a cash prize trophy and 40 million LAK, with the Phanthamit Group Company securing second place and the JDB Joint Development Bank taking third.

Additional honors were awarded for the Most Beautiful Fire Boat and the Best Cheering and Performance Team, further highlighting the spirit of unity and celebration that defines this annual cultural event.