Asian Games

Việt Nam officials, coaches and athletes pose for photographs before leaving for China 19th Asian Games which will be held from September 23-October 8 in Hangzhou Province. VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam's sports contingent has left for Hangzhou to compete at the China 19th Asian Games (ASIAD).

The delegation gathers athletes of different sports whose competitions will begin in the next few days, while the rest will depart later according to their schedules.

"Việt Nam are ready, athletes are ready for the ASIAD and we are aware of our responsibility to be worthy of the trust and love of our people," said Chief-de-mission Đặng Hà Việt.

"Each member of the delegation is a representative of Việt Nam who will compete with determination and bravery, waving the red flag with yellow star and bringing home victory."

Việt Nam gathers 504 members with 337 athletes who will compete in 31 sports.

Of the delegation's five-gold target, Việt said the hope was on athletics in the 4x400m event, swimming and rowing. Other potential sports are boxing, sepak takraw, shooting, archery and karate.

At the same time, athletes are expected to earn direct spots and points for the Paris Olympics 2024.

Organisers will hold flag-raising ceremonies on December 22, marking the presence of all delegations at the Games.

The opening ceremony will be held on September 23 night and the closing ceremony is scheduled on October 8.

Swimmer Nguyễn Huy Hoàng and taekwondo fighter Bạc Thị Khiêm are Việt Nam's flag bearers.

The men's football team and rowers are already in China as their events started before the opening ceremony. VNS