The flood season in the West has become a natural law and a cultural characteristic of the river region. When the water rose and filled the fields, the atmosphere here became more bustling and bustling. People have more income from livelihoods and moments of entertainment after hard working hours. Many vastly flooded fields are also being exploited as unique "playgrounds", attracting a large number of people to participate.
Mr. Nguyen Van Cua - a member of the Happy Family Club of Hamlet 3, Luong Tam Commune (Can Tho City), said that during the flood season, his family's entire rice field is flooded. He took advantage of it to reserve freshwater fish, release more fish for people to fish for entertainment, and coordinated with many farmers in the commune to organize a boat race right on the rice fields. The contest attracted a large number of people to watch and cheer.
"The boat is associated with the lives of people in the river area, a means of transportation, spreading nets, and fishing. Bringing boats into competition contributes to promoting the typical image of the West and preserving traditional cultural features, Mr. Cua shared.
According to him, the participating teams all showed their proficiency in using beams, accelerations and the ability to coordinate smoothly between members.
Mr. Vo Van Tam, a resident of Luong Tam commune (Can Tho city), said that his family had a boat for a long time, before motorbikes became popular.
Normally, rowing is very light and relaxed, but when entering the competition, it is extremely rewarding. Although tired, the vibrant atmosphere makes everyone excited, relieving stress after working hours," said Mr. Tam.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Bay in Hamlet 3, Luong Tam Commune (Can Tho City) said this was the first time she participated in the race. "I haven't been rowing a boat for a long time because now I go everywhere by motorbike. But when participating in the competition, I still find myself quite flexible and very excited.
Boat races in the vast floodwaters not only bring joy but also contribute to preserving the typical culture of the West - where water, boats and people blend together to create simple but unique images.
