Welcome to Kampot, Cambodia
A Guide to the 2023 SEA Games in the Kingdom of Wonder
Oh, Kampot! This charming Cambodian town is playing host to one of the most exciting events in Southeast Asia—the 2023 SEA Games. If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about, let me tell you, it’s a spectacle you won’t want to miss. You will find the schedule below.
A Proud Moment for Cambodia
Hosting the SEA Games
The 32nd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) is a biennial multi-sport event, and this year marks a historic moment for Cambodia as it hosts the games for the very first time. With 581 events across 36 sports, including 304 men’s events, 229 women’s events, and 48 mixed events, the games are a celebration of athleticism and regional unity.
Adding to the excitement, the 12th ASEAN Para Games will take place from 3rd to 9th June, showcasing the incredible talent and determination of para-athletes across Southeast Asia.
Kampot’s Role in the SEA Games
Traditional Boat Races
One of the highlights of the SEA Games is the traditional boat races held in Kampot. Nestled along the tranquil Kampot River, this picturesque town is the perfect backdrop for these thrilling competitions.
Kampot Boat Race Schedule (2023 SEA Games)
Here’s a breakdown of the traditional boat race schedule in Kampot. All times are in Phnom Penh time (Indochina Time, ICT):
Saturday, 13th May 2023
- 09:00 – 12 Crews (U24) 250m Men’s Grand Final 1
- 09:15 – 3 Crews (U24) 250m Women’s Grand Final 1
- 09:30 – 12 Crews (Open) 250m Men’s Grand Final 1
- 10:00 – 5 Crews (U24) 250m Women’s Grand Final 1
- 10:30 – 12 Crews (U24) 250m Mixed Grand Final 1
- 11:00 – 12 Crews (U24) 250m Men’s Grand Final 2
- 11:30 – 3 Crews (U24) 250m Women’s Grand Final 2
- 12:00 – 12 Crews (Open) 250m Men’s Grand Final 2
- 13:00 – 5 Crews (U24) 250m Women’s Grand Final 2
- 13:30 – 12 Crews (U24) 250m Mixed Grand Final 2
Sunday, 14th May 2023
- 09:00 – 12 Crews (U24) 500m Men’s Grand Final 1
- 09:30 – 12 Crews (Open) 500m Women’s Grand Final 1
- 10:00 – 5 Crews (U24) 500m Men’s Grand Final 1
- 11:30 – 12 Crews (U24) 500m Mixed Grand Final 1
- 12:30 – 12 Crews (U24) 500m Men’s Grand Final 2
- 13:00 – 12 Crews (Open) 500m Women’s Grand Final 2
- 14:30 – 5 Crews (U24) 500m Men’s Grand Final 2
- 15:00 – 12 Crews (U24) 500m Mixed Grand Final 2
Tuesday, 16th May 2023
- 09:00 – 12 Crews (U24) 800m Men’s Grand Final 1
- 09:30 – 12 Crews (Open) 800m Men’s Grand Final 1
- 10:00 – 5 Crews (U24) 800m Men’s Grand Final 1
- 10:30 – 12 Crews (U24) 800m Mixed Grand Final 1
- 12:00 – 12 Crews (U24) 800m Men’s Grand Final 2
- 12:30 – 12 Crews (Open) 800m Men’s Grand Final 2
- 13:30 – 5 Crews (U24) 800m Men’s Grand Final 2
- 14:00 – 12 Crews (U24) 800m Mixed Grand Final 2
- For a visual preview of the boat races, check out this video: Kampot Boat Races 2023.
The SEA Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies
The Opening Ceremony took place on 5th May 2023 in Phnom Penh, and it was nothing short of spectacular. Cambodians across the country felt an immense sense of pride as their nation showcased its rich culture and hospitality.
The Closing Ceremony is scheduled for 17th May 2023, and if the opening is anything to go by, it promises to be equally breathtaking.
How to Watch the 2023 SEA Games
The official host broadcaster is Cambodia Sports Television (CSTV), but you can also catch highlights and live updates on Facebook and YouTube.
Exploring Cambodia Beyond the Games
While the SEA Games are a major draw, Cambodia has so much more to offer. From the stunning islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem to the rich history of Angkor Wat, this country is a treasure trove of experiences.
Supporting Cambodia
A Personal Mission
As someone who has fallen in love with Cambodia and its people, I’m passionate about giving back. My biggest dream is to help the animals of Cambodia, and I’m working towards making that a reality.
If you’d like to learn more about Cambodia, here are some excellent books to add to your reading list:
- Human Trafficking in Cambodia by Chenda Keo
- Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture
- A History of Cambodia by David Chandler
- Cambodia’s Curse: The Modern History of a Troubled Land by Joel Brinkley
- First They Killed My Father by Loung Ung
Final Thoughts
The 2023 SEA Games are a testament to Cambodia’s growth and resilience. Whether you’re here for the boat races in Kampot, the cultural festivities, or simply to explore this beautiful country, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the magic of Cambodia and witness the Kingdom of Wonder in all its glory.
