After three days of fun festivities on the banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, the 2nd Annual Elephant Boat Race and River Festival wrapped up on Sunday with the Raja Navy (Royal Thai Navy) – Citi winning the royal trophy graciously granted by His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua.

The final four teams – Raja Navy (Royal Thai Navy) – Citi, Thailand National Sports University Lampang Campus – Casillero Del Diablo; Samut Prakarn – PWC Thailand; Pradu Thong Goddess – Keith&Kym; went head to head in the thrilling final but it was last year’s winners the Raja Navy that blitzed the race and claimed the final glory for the second year running.

While the teams battled it out on the river; entertainment at the riverside festival included the Indoor Rowing Tournament with amateur rowers demonstrating their prowess by rowing their fastest time for the chance to win luxury prizes.  Visitors to the three-day event were also treated to champagne tents, an interactive display from Thailand Kite Association, and musical concerts by top Thai artists including Paradox and Oat Pramote and live graffiti displays by celebrated street artist Alex Face. The foodie village was feeding the hungry crowds with a host of pop up food stalls by a selection of Thailand’s top restaurants and Bangkok’s favourite chefs.

The event hosted by Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas raised significant charitable donations through ticket sales that will in turn all be donated to elephant related projects throughout Thailand.