The event, organized by the Long Thanh People's Committee, featured 21 teams with eight rowers each and was part of efforts to promote local tourism and celebrate the national great unity festival in southern Vietnam.

"Boat racing is closely linked to life in the Mekong Delta," Long Thanh's deputy chairman Tran Quoc Ninh said.

"This event is not only a sporting activity but also an opportunity to promote tourism and showcase the friendly, welcoming people of Long Thanh."

The race drew both local residents and visitors, who lined the canal to cheer the teams. 

Organizers said the competition also highlighted the cultural traditions of the Mekong Delta.

At the conclusion of the race, the Danh Loi team was awarded first place.

Long Thanh authorities said they plan to continue holding the annual race to provide entertainment for locals and visitors and to support the commune's growing river-based tourism sector.