Boat race draws crowds to Ho Chi Minh City canal

The race, held along a section of the canal between Chantarangsay Pagoda and Cong Ly Bridge, was part of the 2025 Xuan Hoa Cup, which the city said aims to preserve elements of southern Khmer culture and promote community activities.

Nguyen Hung Hau, chairman of Xuan Hoa Ward, said the event sought to maintain cultural traditions while ensuring safety for participants.

Spectators gathered early along both banks of the canal as teams paddled in close competition. 

Among them was Thi Tay, 38, from Ca Mau Province, who said she had traveled to Ho Chi Minh City a day earlier to support the Dau Sau team from her hometown.

"I came here at 4:00 am thinking only a few people would arrive early, but it was already crowded," she said. 

"The atmosphere is lively, and every time my hometown's boat moves ahead my heart races.

"Seeing everyone's spirit here makes me very happy and proud."

The Vongsa Sousdei Thu Nam team won first place, followed by the Southern Khmer Buddhist Academy and Khlang Ong.