Sports and Games

Thai boxing is a popular sport in Thailand. Barefoot boxers kick or punch one another. Music often plays during the match. The boxers bounce to the beat of the music.

Many Thais play takraw. This game is similar to both volleyball and soccer. Players try to keep the ball in the air. They cannot use their hands to hit the ball. They use their heads and feet to pass the ball over a net.

Kite fighting is popular in Thailand. Players use their kite to knock down other kites. The fight lasts until only one kite is in the air. In the spring, thousands of Thais watch kite fights near the grand Grand Palace Palace in Bangkok.

The old sport of boat racing remains popular today. Teams consist of about 10 rowers. The teams race as part of celebrations at the end of the rainy season.