Traditional Rowing Competition: Fisherman's Eid Tradition In Batang

Traditional Rowing Competition: Fisherman's Eid Tradition in Batang

Eid al-Fitr is a sacred moment to stay in touch. This moment is also used by Batang fishermen, especially those who live in Klidang Lor, to stay in touch. But not just gathering, the moment of friendship between the fishermen is manifested in a traditional rowing competition. This tradition has been started 43 years ago.

"This has become a tradition for decades. During the past year, they have finally been able to get together, after going out to sea with their respective groups every day. Then at this moment, they can stay in touch with each other in their typical way as a fisherman. Namely by rowing competition," explained one of the youth who organized the competition, Muchdorun.

The competition, which has become a local community tradition, has now become an annual event in the Klidang Lor River. Which is held annually from D + 1 Eid to H + 6 Eid.

Although initially, only Batang fishermen participated, until now their participation has expanded. Not infrequently also followed by the people of the surrounding urban districts, such as Pekalongan and Kendal. Sometimes there are also from outside the regency.

Year by year, the appearance of the participants is getting more unique. Not only equipped with rowing skills and sturdy bodies, but the participants also usually show solidarity through uniforms and cheers.

This competition is usually followed by hundreds of rowing groups. With a knockout competition system, each group will compete for the top three winners. The participants will be declared to go to the next round if they manage to outperform the opposing team across the Klidang Lor River with a 200-meter route.

Not only as an entertainment and tourism event, but this Traditional Rowing Competition also often gives birth to professional rowing athletes in Batang. In fact, not infrequently these athletes often excel at the provincial or national level.

"Besides the Traditional Rowing Competition, there are other rowing competitions in Batang itself. The rowing competitions are different because one is called the Dragon Boat Rowing Competition, which is held every new year by a neighboring village, Klidang Wetan Village," he explained.

This Eid 2020, this routine event had to be canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Hopefully, this tradition will be carried out again with a more festive atmosphere. So, where is your Eid holiday? Please schedule to see the Rowing Competition in Batang next year. (Nov)