Top Pattaya officials congratulated Pattaya’s city-wide marching bands, which took home gold medals at a European competition.
Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome, Deputy Mayor Wattana Chantanawaranon and Pattaya school administrators saluted the two bands, comprised of students from the city’s 11 public schools, July 14 as they paid respect at the Great King Taksin statue in front of Pattaya City Hall.
The young band members join in the ceremony by lighting and placing joss sticks in the ceremonial urn in front of City Hall.
The bands won two gold medals July 4-13 at Germany’s Rasteder Musiktage International Open. The German show is an official qualifying competition for entry into the 2012 and 2013 World Association of Marching Show Bands World Championships to be held in January.
The marchers took top honors in the marching parade and show band categories.
Itthiphol said the bands made the city proud and enhanced its reputation overseas. The city donated new uniforms and arranged transport, meals and accommodations.
The Great King Taksin’s statue looks over the ceremony at City Hall.
Mayor Itthiphol Kunplome leads the school bands and city administrators in paying homage to King Taksin the Great.
