It is often larger than life, and it scales new heights as and when it happens. The world famous Nehru Trophy boat race at the Punnammada backwaters in the District of Alappuzha is one such unique sporting event cherished by Keralites of all age groups. A treat to onlookers, the highlight of the race is the performance of the long and majestic Chundan Vallams or snake boats with 80 to 100 oarsmen in each one of them. These boats rip the placid backwaters at great speeds. It is a fight to the finish for these oarsmen, because it is a question of pride and glory to them and the region they represent.