Khmer boat race excites crowds in southern Vietnam
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(VOVWORLD) - The traditional Ngo (Khmer boat) race kicked off on November 7 in the Mekong Delta province of Soc Trang, bringing together 54 teams from seven localities and attracting thousands of local residents and tourists.
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| The race is taking place as part of the Ok Om Bok Festival (moon worshipping) which is often held around the full-moon period of the 10th lunar month, following the harvest season. |
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| Khmer people believe that the moon is a god that controls the weather and crops. The worship is therefore to thank the moon for granting them good weather and bumper harvests, as well as to pray for better crops the following year. Photographed is an art performance put on by Khmer ethnic people at the opening ceremony of the boat race. |
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| The opening ceremony sees the presence of local leaders, monks, and Khmer people. |
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| Hundreds of racers from Bac Lieu, Ca Mau, Hau Giang, Kien Giang, Tra Vinh, Vinh Long, and the host Soc Trang compete in the tournament. |
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| The cox (standing) urges the racers to speed up as they approach the finish line. |
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| The teams strive to reach the finish line. |
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| The race attracts a large number of monks who come to participate in the festival. |
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| Thousands of local residents and tourists gather together, giving great encouragement to participating racers. |
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| Wading to view boat race is a traditional part of culture of the Mekong Delta region. |
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| Racers show their sincere thanks to spectators following the conclusion of the competition. |
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