Hue Hosts 37th Traditional Boat Race on Huong River

In the vibrant atmosphere of the nationwide celebration of the 81st anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day, on the morning of September 2, the Hue City Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism officially opened the 37th Traditional Boat Race on the Huong River. From early morning, a large number of citizens and tourists flocked to the banks of the Huong River. Along the riverside road, many people found vantage points to follow the competitions. The cheers and shouts of encouragement blended with the rhythmic rowing, creating a lively atmosphere in the heart of the city on National Day. This year's competition featured 10 boats from various localities and units, including Trieu Son Dong (Hoa Chau Ward), Trieu Son Trung and Giap Trung (Kim Tra Ward), Thu Le and Mai Duong (Quang Dien Commune), Quang Vinh (Dan Dien Commune), An Cuu Ward, Huong An Ward, Thuan An Ward, and A Luoi 4 Commune. The teams competed over distances ranging from 700-900 meters, with three stages: upper, middle, and lower. In the men's divisions, races involved three laps and six rows, while other categories competed over two laps and four rows. Alongside men's and women's events, there was also a mixed men's and women's category. On the racecourse, teams continuously accelerated, staying close to each other amidst the cheers of the spectators. For the people of Hue, boat racing is not just a sports competition but also a familiar cultural activity maintained annually on National Day. The 37th Traditional Boat Race contributed a dynamic cultural and sporting activity to National Day in Hue. It also served to maintain the tradition of practicing this sport and help promote the unique cultural characteristics of the ancient capital to the public and tourists. Source: Nhan Dan