*What are the biggest responsibilities and challenges for the Vietnamese team as it debuts at the 2025 SEA Games?
- Ms. Đỗ Bích Ngọc:
Our foremost responsibility is not only to deliver strong performances but also to embody the core values of Vietnamese sports-discipline, resilience and sportsmanship.
This is Vietnam’s first time competing in Jet Ski, which presents a major challenge, especially as other regional teams have built their training systems over decades.
However, our participation underscores Vietnam’s ambition to step onto the international stage with confidence. We arrive with a learning mindset, but not as bystanders. We aim to prove that Vietnam has the capability, determination and potential to grow in this sport.
Although top regional teams may not yet see Vietnam as a contender, our presence means they will have to factor us into future competitions.
* How would you assess the team’s current capabilities compared with other Southeast Asian countries?
- Ms. Đỗ Bích Ngọc: Vietnam’s Jet Ski program remains far behind regional powerhouses such as Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia and the Philippines. But after intensive training, strict conditioning and exposure to international competitive environments, our athletes have advanced rapidly.
Their driving technique, physical strength and competitive spirit have all improved, giving us grounds to hope for medal contention in selected events.
With continued investment after the 33rd SEA Games, Vietnam could become a formidable regional team within a few years.
* How has the Vietnamese team prepared for the 33rd SEA Games?
- Ms. Đỗ Bích Ngọc: Our goals are clear: compete for medals and confirm Vietnam’s capability in this discipline.
Personnel selection has been a priority. As Jet Ski in Vietnam is driven by socialized sports development, clubs serve as the source of all athletes. Beyond technical expertise, we require strong ethics and a deep sense of responsibility.
The team has trained continuously in Tuần Châu, Đại Lải and Sầm Sơn, where athletes have practiced in simulated real-world conditions to refine technique, speed and competitive readiness. Despite limited preparation time, we are confident they will perform at their peak.
We have also received critical support from partners including Kawasaki Long Biên, Jetpilot and Lasong Sầm Sơn, who contributed equipment, technical support, apparel, accessories, international experts and high-quality training and accommodation facilities. Nutrition support from brands such as Natureworks and Hector has strengthened athletes’ physical condition and immunity.
* What does it mean to you personally to lead the team at this SEA Games?
- Ms. Đỗ Bích Ngọc: I feel deeply honored and equally aware of the responsibility. Every decision affects not only the team but also the nation’s image.
Representing Vietnam in a sport that remains relatively new domestically adds further weight to that responsibility. Being the first person to lead a Vietnamese Jet Ski team into Southeast Asia’s premier competition is especially meaningful.
Despite challenges, limited experience, psychological pressure and the demands of pioneering, we understand that this journey is about breaking new ground. I am proud to be part of it.
* What values and long-term impacts will Vietnam’s participation in the 2025 SEA Games bring to the domestic Jet Ski movement?
- Ms. Đỗ Bích Ngọc: The Federation believes that now is the right time for Vietnam to enter the regional stage to seize development opportunities. This participation marks the transition of Jet Ski in Vietnam from a grassroots activity into a structured, forward-looking sport.
Our SEA Games debut aims to attract more young athletes, strengthen business confidence and boost training, coaching and professional sports management.
From this foundation, Vietnam can establish national-level competitions, develop international-standard training centers and build a sustainable system for coaching and athlete development. This will support a stronger marine sports sector tied to tourism, the maritime economy and national image promotion.
Jet Ski also carries important social value. In natural disasters or floods, trained teams from this movement can participate in rescue efforts alongside official forces.
In 2024, the Vietnam Powerboat Sports Federation was officially established in the former city of Quy Nhơn.
Mr. Trần Việt Anh, Acting Chairman of the Gia Lai Tourism Association, serves as President of the Federation.
The Federation’s establishment and its membership in the International Powerboat Federation mark a significant milestone, opening up major opportunities for organizing competitions, training athletes, and developing the sport nationwide.