Rowing 

Athletes practise at the Hải Phòng Rowing Centre in preparation for the Southeast Asian Rowing and Canoeing Sprint Seniors, U23, U19 and Juniors Championships. VNA/VNS Photo

HẢI PHÒNG — Athletes are gathering together in Hải Phòng City to compete in the Southeast Asian Rowing and Canoeing Sprint Championships which is organised at the same time as the competitions for the U23s, U19s and juniors.

Among competitors of seven participating countries, more than 260 will compete in rowing and nearly 300 will take part in canoeing at the rowing centre in Thuỷ Nguyên District.

Speaking at the opening ceremony on June 27, Southeast Asian Rowing Federation President Rangsan Wongsan said the regional championship was an important event for ASEAN players. It was a key test of their strength before they compete at the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand in 2025.

Wongsan appreciated the good preparation of the local authorities and Việt Nam Rowing Federation saying he was impressed with the organisers' warm hospitality.

The championships will last untill July 7. Rowing events will be held on three days from June 28-30. Phạm Thị Huệ who will represent Việt Nam at the Paris Olympics is there hoping for medals.

So is Nguyễn Thị Hương, the first Vietnamese canoeist to qualify for an Olympics, competing in individual and team categories. VNS