Dragon Boys Tassa Band recapture Tassa Taal crown

Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, May 14, 2025: The Dragon Boys Tassa Band continued their winning streak as they claimed the title of 2025 Republic Bank Tassa Taal Champions (senior category) on Saturday, May 10. The event, held in Debe and hosted by Republic Bank’s Penal Branch, marked its 41st year with a strong turnout of supporters. Formerly known as Tassarama, the annual competition featured colourful and energetic performances from over a dozen talented tassa groups across the country.

Hosted this year at the Samar Entertainment Centre, the competition was divided into three categories; Primary Schools Dance; Secondary Schools Tassa and Senior Tassa. In the primary school dance category, Ramai Trace Hindu School copped first place with Clarke Road Hindu finishing second.

The secondary school category saw last year’s champions Naparima College retaining the crown as well as People's Choice honours. Shiva Boys Hindu College came in second and Fyzabad Anglican Secondary School took home third place along with the prize for Best Cultural Depiction.

The pinnacle of the event was the senior category. Defending 2024 champions Dragon Boys Tassa Band held on to their crown also copping the People’s Choice award. Charlie Boys Tassa Group captured second place along with the prize for Best Cultural Depiction with Central Rhythmz Tassa coming in third place.

In addressing the crowd, Republic Bank’s Regional Sales Manager, Commercial and Retail Banking, Geeta Jairam stated “At Republic Bank, we are honoured to continue hosting this event because we understand the importance of keeping our cultural traditions alive and relevant.” This event goes beyond the spirit of competition—it stands as a vibrant celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage, made possible through the Bank’s Power to Make a Difference Corporate Social Responsibility programme.