VietNamNet Bridge – Thousands of locals and tourists gathered on the banks of the Huong (Perfume) River in the ancient capital city of Hue in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue on May 3, to see traditional boat racing.

The race attracted 16 teams, totaling 192 rowers, including eight men’s and eight women’s teams from districts where they have a boat-racing tradition in their province.

Each team included 11 rowers and a driver, who competed for nine prizes.

The race took place in the river section in front of the Nghinh Luong Dinh, a floating pavilion which was built for Nguyen Kings to take fresh air on the northern bank of the Huong River.

The boat racing was the last activity of the Hue Traditional Craft Festival 2011, which closed on May 3 evening. The Hue Traditional Craft Festival 2011, themed “Vietnamese Cuisine in Hue Ornamental Garden,” was held from April 30 – May 3. The biennial festival honors the traditional cuisine and ornamental plants of Vietnam-- particularly from Hue.

Rowers ran from the starting line…

… to their boats.

The race began.

The audience.

Running to the finish line.

After the race

The organizing board gave prizes to the winners after seven rounds of competition.

The traditional boat racing has been restored in Hue city for several years.

In the past, it was held to pray for good weather.

Source: VNE/Bee.net