Famous for its fire spinning, Haad Rin beach at night explodes into a launchpad for furious fire twirlers eager to strut their stuff.
You may know of Haad Rin Beach in Kho Phangan due to the infamous full moon party. I’ve been to one before, and whilst an epic experience it’s a post in itself so I won’t derail my own thread of thought here. This time around we were visiting Haad Rin at a quieter period between full moons, only one bar was heaving at night, the notorious Cactus Bar.
The fire spinners rock in at around 9.30 – 10.00 PM and do a slow warm-up whilst sipping on a few Chang beers. Shirtless and wearing skinny jeans, they start spinning with relaxed ease.
Click me, I’m HD! – Kicking off the fire spinning with style.
This is a little video we made using my iPhone 3GS (yep, still have a 3GS :P), so the quality is not the best but gives you a taster of the speed and skill of these guys to complement the photos below.
The youngest one, still obviously an apprentice, is the most theatrical of the group, although more accident prone than his older counterparts.
Prone to theatrics!
Click me, I’m HD! – Showing us how it’s done. Just a quick flick of the foot and you’re off.
Flashing a bit of the Calvin!
Sometimes they shake off the excess fuel in a roar of flame before starting the spin (and yes, that’s a white boy. The others even referred to him as “white boy”.)
Click me, I’m HD! – I love the shadows & silhouettes in this shot.
Most of them are super skinny! I guess a product of sweating and fire twirling every night.
This guy with the pony tail was one of the best, he was so fast it was unbelievable.
Woah, burn it up much?
Click me, I’m HD! – White Boy shows off his own fire bursting skill.
The tricks of the trade.
I’m guessing it’s called the “Helicopter” but I’m not an industry pro.
Click me, I’m HD! – Ponytail looking relaxed (even a bit bored?)
This fire spinner had a mean underswing that would come incredibly close to his body.
Oops? It ain’t foolproof kids, don’t try this at home!
So if you find yourself on Koh Phangan on Haad Rin beach, grab yourself a bucket (just one, mind – those things are dangerous ;)) and sit down and enjoy the show.
The picture that says Opps literally made me laugh out loud, and now my boss is giving me a funny look. Oh well, I’m on my last week of work anyway. Can’t wait to get a beer with you guys in Brisbane.
I’m so mesmerized by all of the fire spinners around SE Asia! Makes me want to learn.
I am the ‘white boy’ referred to in this article. Haha..
Some nice pictures here.
This is a video of me spinning some fire solo:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tNWSJgMtacc
Haha, cool man! Thanks for dropping a comment, you’ve got some awesome fire spinning skills that’s for sure! You guys always put on a good show.. you still in Thailand or what?
Thanks a lot 🙂 Yeah, I’m still in Thailand for the moment.
Hi I was wondering if anyone knows if this group has a name, or actually do scheduled performances anywhere other than cactus bar? Would love to find out more! Thanks, Chris