In a stunning upset on Tuesday, Niranam Chundan brought Veeyapuram's dominant nine-match winning streak to a dramatic halt, securing victory in the Kochi leg of the prestigious Champions Boat League (CBL) fifth season. The event, held on the iconic backwaters, drew massive crowds and featured a vibrant showcase of Kerala's culture.
A Nail-Biting Finish on the Backwaters
The main event lived up to its hype as the mighty snake boats, or Chundans, sliced through the emerald waters. The Niranam Boat Club crew faced a formidable challenge from the previously unbeaten Veeyapuram team. In a finish that had spectators on the edge of their seats, Niranam Chundan crossed the line in 4:10.064 seconds, a mere fraction ahead of Veeyapuram, which clocked 4:10.119 seconds. The victory was decided by a margin of just 0.055 seconds, marking one of the closest races in recent memory.
Completing the podium was Nadubhagam Chundan, which put in a strong performance to finish third with a time of 4:11.159 seconds.
Marine Drive Abuzz with Spectators and Culture
Hundreds of enthusiastic fans, including a significant number of foreign tourists, lined the Marine Drive walkway to witness the spectacular event. The atmosphere was electric, blending sporting excitement with rich cultural traditions.
Organizers ensured a full-fledged festival experience for attendees. The pre-race festivities included captivating performances like a classical Mohiniyattam dance and the powerful rhythms of a singari melam percussion ensemble. As a safety precaution, the fire and rescue services also conducted an informative mock drill demonstration for the public.
Small Boats Showcase Fierce Competition
Beyond the headline snake boat race, the Kochi edition of CBL-5 also featured intense competition in the small boat category. This race was won by Garudan, which powered its way to first place with an impressive time of 4:15.781 seconds.
The victory for Niranam Chundan has injected fresh excitement into the league standings, proving that no streak is unbreakable. The Champions Boat League continues to be a magnificent platform that celebrates Kerala's iconic boat racing heritage while attracting global attention to its scenic backwaters and vibrant culture.
