Former Nehru Trophy Champions Kumarakom Boat Club not to compete at the fete this year: Here's why

Kumarakom: After decades as a symbol of pride for the entire village, the Kumarakom Boat Club will sit out this year’s Nehru Trophy Boat Race. The club, one of the rare few to achieve a double hat-trick in the flagship boat race of Alappuzha, has been a fixture in the Champions Boat League since its inception. Until 2018, it consistently reached the Nehru Trophy finals and famously lifted the trophy in the race’s 50th year. The club’s golden era was under the captaincy of Nellanikkal Pappachan.

Double hat-trick glory
From 1971 to 1973, the club clinched three consecutive victories in the Nehru Trophy with the Kalloopparamban Chundan (snake boat). It went on to complete a rare double hat-trick by securing another back-to-back win from 1982 to 1985 aboard the Karichal Chundan. In 2002, during the 50th edition of the race, the club once again emerged champion, this time rowing the Vellamkulangara Chundan.

Muscles ready, wallet empty
Although the rowers still possess the muscle power to take on the Punnamada Lake, financial strain has forced the club to step away. Last year, the team participated in races with the Melpadam Chundan, but m

No captain, no race
In snake boat racing, the captain’s role is crucial in not just leading the team but also in rallying financial support and sponsorships. Without this backing, the club cannot enter the race. “We are not in a position to borrow more after the huge debts from last year’s participation,” said club secretary Sreekanth Puthanparambu.

Costly affair
The team estimates it would take around Rs 50 lakh to prepare for and compete in the Nehru Trophy. Leading clubs now spend between Rs.75 lakh and Rs.1 crore each season. Preparing for the race requires at least 15 days of trial rowing, as well as arranging a training camp and food for the rowers.