Culture & Entertainment · Vietnam Bureau
Nearly 900 athletes compete in Hanoi dragon boat and SUP championship
Hanoi's West Lake hosted the 2026 Open Dragon Boat and Stand-Up Paddleboarding Race on October 4, attracting close to 900 competitors from diplomatic missions, international organizations, and local institutions. The event commemorated the 72nd anniversary of Capital Liberation Day.
LSN Vietnam ·
The 2026 Hanoi Open Dragon Boat and Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Race drew nearly 900 athletes to West Lake on October 4, marking a significant gathering for water sports enthusiasts across the capital. Participants represented embassies, international organisations, provincial governments, universities, businesses and sporting clubs, reflecting broad community participation in the event.
Held to commemorate the 72nd anniversary of Hanoi's Capital Liberation Day, the race demonstrated the city's commitment to promoting sports activities and fostering international camaraderie through athletic competition. Dragon boat racing and stand-up paddleboarding have gained popularity in Hanoi in recent years as recreational and competitive pursuits.
The West Lake venue, one of Hanoi's most prominent natural attractions, provided an ideal setting for the multi-disciplinary water sports competition. The event aligned with broader efforts across Vietnam to develop sports infrastructure and encourage participation in physical activities as part of cultural and national development initiatives.