Father Ray Foundation rolls to victory in 4th Pattaya Bed Race

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The Father Ray Foundation’s team won the 4th Pattaya International Bed Race, helping raise money for Rotary Club-sponsored charities as well as the city’s profile.

It took only 5 minutes and 2 seconds for the six-person Father Ray team to push its rolling bed-cart across the finish line at the unique Jan. 29 race sponsored in part by the Rotary Club of Pattaya. The Mercure Hotel team came in second at 5 minutes and 54 seconds. The George and Dragon team came in third at 6:01.

On your mark, get set …On your mark, get set …

Deputy Mayor Ronakit Ekasingh kicked off the race at 6 p.m. with a speech in front of Central Festival Pattaya Beach following a parade of bed-racers around Second and Beach Roads. The track ran from the beachfront mall to Walking Street and drew big crowds.

Twenty-nine teams in all participated, raising funds from sponsors for charity. With news agencies, including Reuter’s television, covering the event, it also generated worldwide publicity for the city.

The winning team from the Father Ray Foundation cheerfully raises the trophy.The winning team from the Father Ray Foundation cheerfully raises the trophy.

Members of the Pullman team sure are enjoying the event.Members of the Pullman team sure are enjoying the event.

Striking a pose before the race, knowing full well they may be too worn out afterwards.Striking a pose before the race, knowing full well they may be too worn out afterwards.

The aptly named Pullman crew (or should that be “Pushman” crew?) prepares to take on the Champagne shower show.The aptly named Pullman crew (or should that be “Pushman” crew?) prepares to take on the Champagne shower show.

Jerry Carlson and his band entertain the crowds pre-race at the 4th International Pattaya Bed Race.Jerry Carlson and his band entertain the crowds pre-race at the 4th International Pattaya Bed Race.

Happy to be raising money for a good cause.Happy to be raising money for a good cause.