The opening night begins with art performances showcasing the spirit of the sacred land Tay Son and reimagining different historical periods of Binh Dinh province's history. (Photo: VTCNews)

The opening night began with a series of art performances showcasing the spirit of the sacred land of martial arts, Tay Son of Binh Dinh province, followed by a torch relay from Tay Son-Tam Kiet Temple to the event’s main venue. Both Vietnamese and foreign athletes participated in the ceremony, including Binh Dinh-born kickboxer Nguyen Thi Thanh Tien, 3-time UIM-ABP Aquabike champion Jeremy Perez, and 2023 UIM-ABP Ski Ladies champion Jessica Chavane.

Perez said: “Our Vietnamese audiences are amazing.  I had a 10-day stay here back in January and it was very enjoyable. We feel welcomed and safe here. And in return, we are always happy to take pictures with locals”.

The torch relay ceremony is led by 2023 UIM-ABP Aquabike champion Jeremy Perez and 2023 UIM-ABP Ski Ladies GP1 champion Jessica Chavane. (Photo: VTCNews)

2023 UIM-ABP Ski Ladies GP1 champion Jessica Chavane, who visited Vietnam for the first time this year, also said the country made a great first-impression on her: “I am really happy to be here. We are satisfied with everything, and it feels like going on a holiday. We were warmly welcomed. Everyone was happy so we felt very comfortable and safe”.

After the opening ceremony, the Amazing Binh Dinh Fest 2024 will continue with a series of exciting sports, cultural, and trade promotion events from now until March 31, such as the 2024 UIM-ABP Aquabike championship, Binh Dinh Culinary Culture Festival, F1 H20 powerboat championship, and more. According to Mr. Pham Anh Tuan, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, the Amazing Binh Dinh Fest demonstrates the province’s determination to make Binh Dinh a major tourism hub in Vietnam and the region. The province aims to attract 5.5 million visitors this year and achieve a revenue of about 750 million USD.