(VOVWORLD) - Vietnam has completed most preparations for the 31st Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games 31), which will take place from May 12-23 in Hanoi and 11 other cities and provinces. This is the second time Vietnam has hosted the largest regional sporting event.
 Hanoi launches a 31-day countdown to tSEA Games 31 on April 11, 20022. (Photo: CTV/Vietnam+) |
To prepare for SEA Games 31, the Organizing Board has established 9 sub-committees in charge of technical support, security, transport, health and doping testing, logistics and public services, and communications. Hanoi and other localities have upgraded facilities and built new venues for the events.
Le Thi Hoang Yen, Deputy Head of the Sports Department under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, told VOV, “All the facilities and human resources are ready for SEA Games 31. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and Hanoi authorities have worked out scenarios for the opening and closing ceremonies for them Games, which aim to promote the image of Vietnam to foreign friends.”
Some 3,000 volunteers have completed training. They will support officials, athletes and coaches.
“SEA Games 22 in Vietnam left deep impression on me and I wished to become a volunteer for the event some day. SEA Games 31 is a great opportunity for us to participate in,” said Tran Thi Thanh Tra, a student of Hanoi Open University.
 International representatives examine venues for SEA Games 31 in Quang Ninh province. (Photo: VOV) |
Quang Ninh province is the second most hosted venue after Hanoi. Tuan Chau Island is the venue for a number of events, including handball, beach volleyball and triathlon (swimming, running, cycling).
“We’re pumping sand for beach volleyball and handball. We have also prepared facilities and surrounding areas for the triathlon,” said Dinh Huu Chung, Deputy General Director of Tuan Chau Group.
SEA Games 31 will feature 40 sports and expects to attract around 10,000 athletes and officials from 11 Southeast Asian countries.