Composite boat breaks in two in Vietnam's Can Tho, killing operator
As a young man was killed when a composite speedboat broke in two during a test run, organizers have suspended a planned speedboat race in Can Tho City, southern Vietnam, which was scheduled for Saturday, citing safety concerns.
The composite speedboat broke in two. Photo: Supplied
On Saturday, a leader of the Nga Nam Ward People's Committee in Can Tho confirmed that the 2026 Nga Nam Ward Open Composite Boat Racing Championship had been suspended.
The decision came after a video circulated on social media showing a boat operator traveling along a river before the vessel suddenly broke in two, killing the man at the helm.
The incident occurred on Saturday on the Quan Lo-Phung Hiep River.
According to the Nga Nam Ward authorities, the victim had been practicing to prepare for the event, not taking part in an official race.
Witnesses told VnExpress that the boat was traveling at high speed when large waves from passing vessels caused it to break in two.
The operator was thrown into the river, lost consciousness, and later died.
The accident occurred outside the designated area for the planned race course.
The Nga Nam Ward People's Committee said the victim was not on the list of registered competitors. Local authorities visited his family and offered condolences.
Organizers sought approval from the Can Tho Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism to suspend the race following the incident.
Known as 'flying boats', 'vo lai' composites are small, lightweight motorboats commonly used in Vietnam's Mekong Delta that recently went viral among tourists after videos of high-speed rides spread on social media.
Earlier, on September 22, the Nga Nam Ward People's Committee announced plans for the 2026 Nga Nam Ward Open Composite Boat Racing Championship, scheduled for October 10.
The event was set to feature 48 competitors racing over a 700-meter course, with boats powered by 20-horsepower engines. The vessels were to measure 5.2 meters long and weigh 40-45 kilograms.
Competitors were expected from Can Tho and neighboring localities. Prizes ranged from VND5 million (about US$192) for fourth place to VND40 million (about $1,540) for the winner, who would also receive a boat, an engine and a propeller assembly.
Van Giang - Khac Tam - Ca Linh / Tuoi Tre News
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