2017 King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament – Helping Thailand’s Gentle Giants

An annual event that especially focuses on the wellbeing of elephants in Thailand, the King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament recently concluded in the Thai capital. Taking place on the Chao Phraya riverbanks, close to Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, this popular tournament was held from 9th to 12th March. The tournament was open to the public and was easily accessible from Bangkok resorts in the Riverside area. This year’s event featured 30 gentle giants who once worked as “street elephants” as well as 40 competitors including local and international celebrities and professional sports stars. Event organisers were keen to stress on the fact that all participating elephants were well cared for and the strict rules of the tournament ensured their wellbeing along with providing veterinary examinations on a daily basis as well as the proper diet. Proceeds from the tournament are used to assist a number of conservation projects for elephant such as the Thai Elephant Assisted Autistic Therapy Project which is the first of its kind in the world.