KUCHING: The Regata Pesta Benak 2024 saw an outstanding performance by Khazanah Kasihnya Warisan as the team claimed two prestigious titles, cementing their dominance in the traditional boat races on the Batang Lupar.
On the second day of the competition, the team, led by Kadir Manap, clinched the coveted Raja Pecut (King of Speed) title.
However, they did not stop there, wrapping up the regatta with another victory in the 30-Paddler final.
This double triumph earned Khazanah Kasihnya Warisan the grand prize of RM25,000 as well as the Raja Sungai (King of the River) Trophy and the Champion of 30 Paddlers title.
Earlier in the day, during the opening race on the third day, the team also triumphed in the No-Limit Marathon 30 Paddlers event, showcasing their strength and endurance across multiple disciplines.
In addition to the 30-Paddler race, the team also claimed victories in other categories, including the 20-Paddler and 25-Paddler races, further solidifying their supremacy in the regatta.
The prize-giving ceremony, which marked the event’s conclusion, was attended by Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, who presented the awards to the winners.
He was accompanied by his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
Full results of the 30-Paddler Race – featuring 16 competing teams, saw MRG Gedong II finish in second place, earning RM10,000, while Todak Berjaya (led by Kaunselor Kasdi Pandi) took third place, receiving RM5,000.
Pusaka Burung Garuda and Barracuda Puteri Dayang Esah Tandang Sari claimed fourth and fifth places, respectively.
In the eight paddlers race, Todak Berjaya emerged as the winner.
In the Mixed Paddlers race (15 men and 5 women), Garuda Simanggang, owned by Awang Sapudin Awang Jalai and Aziz Haris, claimed victory.
Meanwhile, Todak Berjaya dominated the 10-Paddler event, and Pancar Buraq Sakti, owned by Melainie Bolhassan, won the 15-Paddler race.
The Raja Sungai Benak Batang Lupar title has a rich history, with previous winners, including Burung Garuda (2023), Cahaya Helang Tasik (2022), Cahaya Putri Ruai (2019), Mahkota Dewa MRT Gedong (2018), Bujang Simanggang (2017), Landas (2016), Sinaran Ratu Siska (2015), Enraz Cahaya Zen (2012, 2013, 2014), and Bujang Sigat Simanggang (2011).
