IN PHOTOS | Row, row, row away....: Kerala holds 69th Nehru Trophy boat race in Alappuzha
Express News Service
In a nail-biting finish, PBC's Veeyapuram Chundan lifted the prestigious trophy that bears the signature of the country’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. (Photo | T P Sooraj)Veeyapuram completed the course in 4.21:22 minutes, while Champakulam took 4.21:28. Nadubhagam hit the tape in 4.22:22. (Photo | T P Sooraj)Champakulam Chundan, helmed by Kumarakom Town Boat Club, finished first runner-up, while Kainakary United Boat Club’s Nadubhagam Chundan ended up as the second runner-up. (Photo | T P Sooraj)Thousands of boat-race enthusiasts gathered on the banks of the Vembanad braving heavy rain, which lashed the area all morning. (Photo | T P Sooraj)Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was expected to inaugurate the race. However, adverse weather conditions prevented his helicopter from landing. (Photo | T P Sooraj)Fisheries and Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian did the honours in his absence, in the presence of Agriculture Minister P Prasad. (Photo | T P Sooraj)A total of 72 boats, including 19 snake boats participated in the race. (Photo | T P Sooraj)
