Dugout canoe race on Dak Bla river

(NADS) - On the morning of March 30, the People's Committee of Kon Tum City, Kon Tum Province organized the Traditional Open Dugout Canoe Race on the Dak Bla River. The race was attended by nearly 70 athletes from 15 wards and communes in Kon Tum City, Ia H'Drai District and Tu Mo Rong District.

Athletes compete in two events: 400m men's (for 2 athletes on 1 boat) and 1,000m men's (for 2 athletes on 1 boat).

The dugout canoe has a traditional cultural value, closely associated with the daily life of ethnic minority people for generations. With its rustic and wild nature, this means of transport on the river has become unique and plays an important role in travel, as well as serving the labor and production of the people. In recent years, the dugout canoe racing has been assessed by Party committees and authorities at all levels as having great potential for tourism development, especially community tourism.

The racing boats are about to reach the finish line at a distance of 1,000m.

The Kon Tum City Open Canoe Race 2024 aims to promote to regional, domestic and international tourists the potential and strengths of economic, cultural and tourism development of Kon Tum province in general and Kon Tum city in particular. Actively respond to the campaign "All people exercise following the example of great Uncle Ho" and the movement "Healthy to build a career and defend the country". Through the race, in order to maintain and develop traditional sports of ethnic groups in the area in general, and canoe racing in particular, this is an opportunity for athletes to meet, exchange, and create a vibrant atmosphere to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the founding of Kon Tum city (April 10, 2009 - April 10, 2024).

The racing boats are all equally matched.

The organizing committee awarded first, second and third prizes to pairs of athletes.

After a competition with thrilling, suspenseful and emotional chases for achievements, under the enthusiastic cheers of thousands of spectators, the 2024 Open Canoe Race ended successfully. The Organizing Committee awarded 2 First Prizes, 2 Second Prizes, 2 Third Prizes and 14 Encouragement Prizes to athletes with high achievements in the 400m and 1000m distances./.

Some images at the 2024 traditional open dugout canoe race organized by the People's Committee of Kon Tum City, Kon Tum Province.