The first edition of the Sookany Trophy in Ramena has lived up to its promises. Regattas, culture, and maritime heritage defined the event in Antsiranana.
After three days of competition, the inaugural Sookany Trophy, held on the beach of Ramena, concluded last Sunday in a festive atmosphere. Blending maritime tradition, athletic performance, and tourism ambition, Antsiranana offered a spectacle worthy of its bay’s reputation.
This major traditional dhow regatta, reminiscent of the former “Bangra” festival, transformed the bay into a vast celebration space. For three days, the event brought together residents of Ramena and surrounding areas, as well as many Malagasy and foreign visitors, reviving a maritime tradition deeply rooted in the history of the Ramena bay.
The competition saw 39 dhows start, with 15 reaching the final. The “Diana-1” dhow, led by Jocelyn Botralahy and sponsored by BRED bank, took first place, winning a prize of ten million ariary. Beyond the sport, the event organized by Koezy Company provided a significant economic boost to local merchants, artisans, and the tourism sector in the Diana region.
The event also featured traditional “vakodrazana” and “trotrobe” competitions, highlighting the region’s commitment to preserving local culture alongside its maritime heritage.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-21 06:11:51 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/antsiranana-sookany-trophy-reussit-un.html