Cool running: Thai students carve out Harbin snow sculpting victory
Teams from Saowabha Vocational College and Saraburi Vocational College in Thailand secured joint first place at the 17th International Collegiate Snow Sculpture Contest in Harbin, China, as announced by the Office of the Vocational Education Commission (OVEC) yesterday, January 8.
OVEC Secretary General Yodsaphon Wenukoset reported that the event was sponsored by Harbin Engineering University and took place from January 4 to January 7, as part of the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival.
The contest featured 55 teams from eight countries, including Thailand, China, Italy, Germany, Russia, Malaysia, Portugal, and Belarus. OVEC participated by sending three vocational teams to represent Thailand.
The four-member team from Saowabha Vocational College’s Fine Art Department achieved first place with their sculpture, Bond of the Twin Guardians. This artwork draws inspiration from the enduring diplomatic relations between Thailand and China, depicting mythical creatures from each culture believed to have protective powers, symbolising a long-lasting and harmonious partnership.
Equally successful in first place was the team from Saraburi Vocational College’s Fine Art Department, with their sculpture Thai Fight. This piece highlights the strength of Muay Thai boxing and features elephants, a notable Thai cultural symbol.
The team from Surat Thani Vocational College’s Fine Art Department earned second place with their piece, Thai-Chinese Relationship. This sculpture symbolises the migration of Chinese nationals to Thailand and portrays the dynamic and graceful lion dance.
Yodsaphon mentioned that all three teams are expected to return to Thailand today, January 9, reported Bangkok Post.
“The competition provided a platform for vocational students to showcase their skills while securing this significant achievement for the country.”
Last year, three Thai vocational student teams took part in the international snow sculpture competition in Harbin, China, with Saowapa Vocational College scooping first prize. Teams from Saraburi and Surat Thani Vocational Colleges both secured third place.
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