Page 28 - Masala E-magazine Vol 9 Issue 5 April - May 2018

EVENTS

Where Elephants Meet

Ethical Extravagance

The King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament saw people from all walks of life come

together to celebrate and protect Thailand’s most beloved national animal.
B Y A SHIMA SETHI

fter four days of excitement on the riverbanks next However, the competition was
to Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, the 16th more than just fun and games,
A annual King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament was as it is recognised as one of
a wonderful and smashing success. Held on March 8th, the the biggest charitable events
event had something for everything, including a colourful in Southeast Asia. This year,
opening parade led by Kru Ba Yai, also known as Thailand’s 20 unemployed former street
last Elephant Spirit Men, accompanied by talented traditional elephants took part, where they
dancers. There was also a Children’s Educational Day, where were given veterinary checks
kids got up close and personal with the gentle giants, while the and care, much deserved food
Ladies’ Day, also known as the Bangkok Ascot, saw a beautiful and drinks, as well as essential supplements for rehabilitation.
turnout of exquisite outfits, but only one won the best-dressed A generous sum of over B4 million was raised, bringing the
woman, and received a free holiday to Oman. total collected sum, over the years, to almost B55 million
for elephant projects across the country. Some of these
Throughout the festivities, guests were treated to delicious organisations include the Zoological Parks Organisation of
food and refreshments at the Thai Food Market, and Thailand, which supports veterinary and educational projects
entertained by the likes of popstar Singto Numchok. The to improve the year-round lives of elephants and mahouts in
highly-anticipated final match was presided over by the King of the Surin Province. Another notable project is the world’s first
Thailand’s Royal representative, H.E Privy Councillor Air Chief Thai Elephant Assisted Autistic Therapy Project, which offers
Marshal Chalit Pukbhasuk. During the tournament, reigning positive reinforcement elephant training workshops, mahout
champions Mekhong battled with PWC New Zealand All Blacks community development and wild elephant conservation.
for the number one title, culminating in a thrilling penalty
shootout where Mekhong clinched the win by a single point. For more information, visit www.anantaraelephantpolo.com

28 Masala Magazine
APRIL - MAY 2018