Tag Archives: sepak-takraw

Some better video from takraw tonight.

I was invited tonight to play the “local sport” known as takraw. As soon as I was explained what the game was, I knew I had seen it before. Since I spent time in hippydom, I knew I was made for this sport. If you are unfamiliar with this game, this clip from YouTube might refresh your memory.

We drove about 5 minutes from my house to a back street where it opened up to the “local stadium”. This local stadium consisted of a small clearing amidst the palms where a net was strung between 2 poles cemented in 2 old tires in which a volleyball net was strung across. We had green tea made from rice and practiced as the locals showed up slowly as their work day ended. We practiced for a few minutes with a break or two to correct the net poles. Within a half hour we had enough guys to begin playing actual games. It’s 3-on-3 and I believe there were 9 of us in total to rotate in and out.

This was easily one of the greatest sporting experiences I’ve had. I think the locals got a kick out of seeing a farang practicing as they showed up. I think I did pretty good for my first time out. I’ve always enjoyed playing hackey-sack so this wasn’t too far of a stretch for me. Everyone was very supportive and when I made a good volley or return, I’d hear them laugh chatter to eachother with the word “farang” being thrown in between. I was beaming with the feeling of acceptance and the local comraderie. This was everything I hoped I’d be thrown into when we signed up for this new world.

In searching out more info and tips I came across this awesome piece from the Onion, enjoy!