HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam is fighting for gold in this year’s ASIAD 2018 games in martial arts.

In the past two years, Việt Nam has won two gold medals, both in the ring. This year they hope to go one better.

Martial arts have always been the shining light of the games, and this year is no exception.

In total, Việt Nam has won 11 gold medals, seven of those in this discipline.

Four of those were in karatedo, two in taekwondo and one in wushu.

This time around all eyes are on the Karatedo team to carry the flag for Việt Nam.

Among the team, 20-year-old Nguyễn Thị Ngoan, is a hot favourite to earn top spot as she’s currently ranked number one in the world in the 60-61kg category.

In the under 68kg category, Hồ Thị Thu Hiền is another hope, and in 69kg, Nguyễn Thị Hồng Anh is expected to do well.

Meanwhile karatedo and taekwondo are both hoping for a gold each.

After Nguyễn Thị Kim Tuyền won three gold in Asian Taekwondo Champs 2018, held on May 26 (two in Poomsae performance and one in sparring), it’s hoped this year they will follow suit.

Head coach of taekwondo team Nguyễn Thanh Huy said this is the first time sparring is added to ASIAD.

“All athletes are determined to bring glory to the nation,” Huy said.

“We have a good foundation though the International Taekwondo Federation will require more creation this year, and other nations and territories like South Korea, Iran, and Chinese Taipei put strong investment in this tourney.

Another event which Việt Nam hopes to win gold is pencat silak.

Finally, the nation also put all hopes in wushu, with responsibility on the shoulders of  “golden girl” Dương Thúy Vi, who excels in spear and sword events.

Martial arts are scheduled to be held from August 19 to September 1. — VNS