RCAT, EGAT, and partners to host Thailand International Dragon Boat Festival 2026 in Rayong Province, boosting sports tourism and economic growth
16 October 2026
On October 15, 2026, the Rowing & Canoeing Association of Thailand (RCAT) held a press conference to announce the Thailand International Dragon Boat Festival 2026, to be held on December 5-6, 2026, at the Royal Thai Navy Rowing and Canoeing Training Centre, Ban Chang District, Rayong Province. The event is organized in collaboration with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO), and other partners. It aims to provide an international platform for dragon boat athletes to showcase their abilities, promote the development of rowing sports in Thailand, and link sporting activities with tourism and the national economy. The festival will welcome clubs from 11 countries: Canada, Russia, Kazakhstan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand. More than 1,100 athletes and officials are expected to participate, reflecting the growing interest in dragon boat racing and providing an opportunity to foster good relations among athletes and sports personnel from around the world.
Vice Admiral Naruephon Koetnak, RCAT President, said dragon boat racing is a distinctive sport that requires strength, endurance, technique, systematic training, teamwork, and synchronization. Beyond competition and medals, the sport fosters friendship, understanding, and good relations among participants from different countries. RCAT is committed to developing rowing sports at all levels. This festival will provide athletes with opportunities to improve their skills, exchange experiences, and advance to international competition. The event also supports Thailand’s sports tourism strategy, promoting the country’s potential to host international sporting events and strengthening its image as a sports destination.
Dr. Meechai Inwood, Deputy Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) for Administration, said that sports and tourism complement each other. International sporting events attract athletes, supporters, and tourists who can experience Thailand’s culture, lifestyle, cuisine, and unique attractions. Dragon boat racing, with its athletic energy and exciting atmosphere, offers memorable experiences for participants and spectators while creating economic opportunities for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport, and related services. The event also helps strengthen Thailand’s image as a welcoming destination for international events.
Mr. Sakrai Kongdham, Director of Sustainability Strategy Division of EGAT, said that as a main sponsor, EGAT supports sports as a way to create social benefits, promote health, provide opportunities for youth to develop their abilities, and encourage community engagement. EGAT has partnered with RCAT to develop rowing sports since 2012, supporting youth, national team athletes, senior athletes, and the general public in accessing sports and developing their potential. Support for this festival continues the collaboration between sports organizations and partners to create opportunities for athletes, encourage physical activity, and inspire more young people to take up sports.
Rear Admiral Wiwat Khwansungnoen, RCAT Secretary General, said the competition will feature 10-paddler and 20-paddler dragon boat races over 500 meters. The races will include open, women’s, and mixed categories across three age groups, namely the general category, the under-24 age group, and the senior age group for athletes aged 40 and above, with eight gold medal events. RCAT is preparing the venue, safety measures, personnel, and facilities to ensure a smooth competition and a positive experience for international participants.
Sports enthusiasts and tourists are invited to follow the Thailand International Dragon Boat Festival 2026 on December 5–6, 2026, at the Royal Thai Navy Rowing and Canoeing Training Centre in Ban Chang District, Rayong Province. The competition will also be livestreamed on RCAT’s Facebook page.
