The opening ceremony was attended by Nguyễn Văn Ý, Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, along with representatives of the ward’s Party Committee, People’s Council, People’s Committee, local agencies, mass organizations and a large number of athletes and residents.
Proceedings began with a lion and dragon dance, followed by a ceremonial parade featuring the national flag, a portrait of President Ho Chi Minh and the festival flag.
A traditional torch relay, carried by three outstanding local athletes, culminated in Vice Chairman of the Ayun Pa Ward People’s Committee Lê Hữu Thùy lighting the festival cauldron, symbolising unity, honesty and sportsmanship.
After the formal ceremony, delegates and spectators watched mass performances by students from schools across the ward, alongside martial arts demonstrations by local Karate and Vovinam clubs.
The festival features competitions in five sports, football, badminton, table tennis, tug of war and crossbow shooting, with matches beginning immediately after the opening ceremony. According to organisers, the event will run until December 20.
The sports festival is also intended to identify outstanding athletes who will represent Ayun Pa Ward at the upcoming provincial sports festival.