Pesta Saratok, also known as the Kalaka Regatta, is a vibrant three-day event that brings the community together through exhilarating boat races on Sungai Krian.
The festival showcases a rich array of activities, primarily centered around the competitive spirit of paddlers vying for the coveted “King of the River” title.
This year, the regatta will feature 21 teams with the regatta kicking off with a traditional prayer recitation ceremony, setting a reverent tone for the festivities.
The initial days are packed with intense sprint events, featuring various categories of boats with 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 paddlers.
Like most regattas, these races demand skill, coordination, and immense physical prowess from the participating teams.
Beyond the traditional paddling, the event also includes a five-horsepower outboard engine race, adding a modern twist to the riverine competitions.
As the festival progresses, the qualifying rounds lead to thrilling finals.
The highlight of the regatta is the “King of the River” challenge, where the top teams battle it out for supremacy on Sungai Krian.
Aside from the regatta, Pesta Saratok also had Kalaka Mountain Bike (MTB) Challenge, Fishing competitons, Dart Competitions as well as 3X3 basketball competition.
The closing ceremony will be graced by Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas. Aside from the Kalaka Regatta, other regatta’s happening in Sarawak this year include Pesta Sebauh, Regata Belaga, Regata Baram, Pesta Besaug Dalat, Regata Telaga Air, Sarawak Regatta and Regata Lingga.
News source: TVS, Sarawak Tribune1, Sarawak Tribune2
