Phnom Penh, March 29, 2024 - Kampong Speu Province's Department of Culture and Fine Arts, in partnership with the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia in Kampong Speu, the Samrong Tong District Administration, and Kampong Speu Province, are set to host the "Salik Ko Loeun 2024 Wheelchair Race" on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at 8:00 AM. The event will unfold in Prey Romduol village, Trapeang Kong commune, in the Samrong Tong district of Kampong Speu province.

This cultural event aims to preserve, promote, develop, and disseminate the traditional oxen cart racing heritage within the contemporary societal context of Kampong Speu province, a tradition long cherished by Khmer ancestors.

Historical research into this ceremony reveals that ox carts were traditionally utilized to transport wedding dowries and elders to weddings, traditional festivals, and other celebrations. Inspired by this tradition, villagers have conceived the idea of organizing a wheelchair race from their communities to the town as a prelude to the traditional New Year festivities.