National Sports Games

Quảng Ninh dragon troupe perform at the National Sports Games' dragon dance event on December 10 in Hạ Long City. They won the gold medal. VNA/VNS Photos

QUẢNG NINH — Host athletes won the first gold medal of the Kylin-Lion-Dragon Dance at the National Sports Games on December 10 in Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh Province.

Quảng Ninh athletes performed their eye-catching dance that told audiences a story about Hạ Long Bay.

The rhythmic and smooth movements and coordination between the team members made for a perfect dance routine which received highest points of 8.78 from judges to top the podium.

HCM City were second while Hà Nội and Hải Phòng shared the third position.

"Our 33 athletes have trained hard for six months. It was nervous and exciting waiting our turn to perform in the National Sports Games," said Bùi Văn Thành, coach of Quảng Ninh.

"Although it was the first time Kylin-Lion-Dragon Dance is listed in the Games but as hosts we have prepared well for the facility and equipment to make sure safety for athletes."

Almost 300 athletes from 14 teams have registered to compete in the Kylin-Lion-Dragon Dance.

Hà Nội team won bronze in the dragon dance event.

Quảng Ninh's 33 competitors take part in four out of seven categories from December 10-15 at the October 30 Square.

The dance is a traditional form of performance, representing a symbol of luck, prosperity, security, and good health during festive events, especially during the Tết (Lunar New Year).

It is a widespread tradition not only in Việt Nam but in many Southeast Asian and East Asian countries.

Nguyễn Thị Niên, a 65-year-old tourist from Hải Phòng was interested in watching the dance. She said the performance was beautiful and colourful, attracting not only children but also adults. The dance and its traditional music performed on drums and castanets make people think that the Tết is approaching. VNS