Recreational sepak takraw can be seen played in the city's public parks, fairgrounds, city streets, courtyards of 'wats' (temples), Sanam Luang (near the Grand Palace), on construction sites or anywhere with just a few feet of open space...
All that is required is a rattan or plastic ball. The dazzling spectacle of the sepak takraw variety also features a net and requires a remarkable combination of flexibility, speed, power, mental alertness and acrobatic skill.
Check out these venues for recreational sepak takraw:
Benchasiri Park Played every evening, from about 17:00 until 21:00. Location: Sukhumvit Road, between Soi 22 and 24 (next to Emporium shopping mall) BTS: Phrom Phong BTS station
Wachirabenchatat Park (Rotfai Park) Location: Kampaengphet 3 Road, Ladyao, Chatuchak (near Chatuchak Weekend Market) BTS: Mo Chit BTS station, or Kampaeng Phet MRT station
Sanam Luang Every Saturday and Sunday morning, until about 10:00. Hoop takraw competitions are held here in the evenings, from around 17:30 onwards. The best time to catch the action is during summer (February to April). Location: Ratchadamnoern Road, Banglamphu (near Wat Phra Kaew)
National Stadium Played every evening from around 17:00 until 20:00. Location: Rama I Road, Patumwan Contact: + 66 (0)2 214 0120 BTS: National Stadium station
Hua Mak Stadium Played every evening from around 17:00 until 19:00. Location: 2088 Ramkamheang Road, Huamark, Bangkapi Contact: + 66 (0)2 318 0940-4
Where to see professional sepak takraw in Bangkok
Beginning in April, professional sepak takraw competitions are held in provinces throughout the country. For more information about where to see it played, or for information on the sport itself, contact the Thailand Takraw Association (TTA) on 02 282 6771.
(Please note that officials here speak little English, so it is best to have someone from your hotel or guesthouse contact the TTA.) |