The event is jointly organized by the Hanoi Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Vietnam Airlines under the theme “An autumn celebration on West Lake: Paddling together to mark the 72nd anniversary of Hanoi’s Liberation Day.”

Organizers expect nearly 900 athletes, with entries from three international teams, embassies, international organizations and localities across Vietnam, for what has become a regular fixture on West Lake.

According to Pham Xuan Tai, deputy director of the Hanoi Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the dragon boat competition will feature 48 teams divided into several groups. Among them are Bomba Pilipinas from the Philippines, Argo Naga from Malaysia and GuangZhou Knight Dragon Boat from China, alongside teams representing Hanoi, Da Nang, Hai Phong and Thai Nguyen.

The stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) competition will bring together 127 athletes, including 29 international competitors, with exciting races expected as they take on paddlers from across Vietnam.

Beyond the racing, the tournament will offer a range of cultural festivities. The opening ceremony is designed as a celebration of water sports, combining sporting formalities with cultural and artistic performances, including traditional lion and dragon dances, festival drumming and a ceremonial drumbeat to open the event.

Yen Nhi