Vietnam holds send-off for delegation to 29th SEA Games

The official made the statement while addressing a send-off, held in Hanoi on August 8, for the national sports delegation ahead of their departure for Malaysia to attend the 29^th SEA Games.

He praised the athletes and coaches for their efforts and determination in overcoming difficulties during the training process over the past few months in preparation for the Games.

Thien asked that all of the members of the contingent be fully aware of their responsibilities, as well as the honour entrusted on them by the Party and State, in order to successfully fulfill their tasks at the largest regional sporting event.

At the ceremony, the minister handed over the national flag and flowers, accompanied by his hope for success, to Tran Duc Phan, Deputy Director of the General Department of Sports and Physical Training and Head of the Vietnamese SEA Games delegation.

Fencer Vu Thanh An, who will be given the honour of holding the Vietnamese national flag at the opening ceremony of the 29^th SEA Games, represented 476 Vietnamese athletes to take the oath, demonstrating a strong will and determination to achieve victories at the Games.

As a practice, prior to any significant international and regional Games, a send-off is held by the sports sector with the aim of stimulating the spirit of the Vietnamese athletes, encouraging them to compete to the best of their abilities in order to bring glory to the homeland.

The 29^th SEA Games is scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from August 19 to 31, featuring a total of 404 disciplines across 38 sports.

Vietnam will send a delegation consisting of 681 members to participate in the event, with 476 athletes competing in 276 disciplines in 32 sports, with the target of a top-three place in the overall medal tally.

(Source: NDO)