From February 20th to 22nd (ie, from the 4th to the 6th day of the Binh Ngo Tet), the traditional Binh Ngo Spring festival and the 2026 cầu ngư festival will take place in Giao Phuc commune. This year's chải swimming tournament attracted the participation of 8 racing teams, including 4 women's teams and 4 men's teams. Men's teams competed on the race leg with a total length of 7.2km along the Con 5 River; the race leg of the women's team was 5.4km.
From early morning, both sides of the river were crowded with people and tourists. The continuous sound of the wooden fish combined with the strong cheo rhythm created a vibrant scene. Viewers cheered to cheer for each dramatic race, and people jostled to find the best position to watch the competition.
As a person directly participating in rowing, Ms. Vu Thi Nhai (rowing athlete of Giao Phuc 40 women's team) shared: "I have participated in rowing for 7 years now. When rowing requires the rower to steer firmly, the members of the team must be even-handed and resilient to push the boat away quickly. This year, my neighborhood team won the Third Prize".
According to athletes, each racing boat usually has 10 - 20 rowers and one rhythm operator (tipping the wooden fish or shouting commands). The achievement does not depend on individual strength but lies in the harmonious, even, and unified coordination between members.
In addition, the wooden fisherman or commander is also likened to the "soul" of a boat with the task of motivating the spirit, helping the rowers maintain concentration. The fast or slow timing of the wooden fisherman also determines the rowing speed of the athletes.
Before that, the members of the team were all carefully selected, ensuring good health. After that, they must practice continuously for 5-10 days to coordinate evenly, get used to the cheo rhythm and strengthen physical strength.
Mr. Hoang Duc Phat - Vice Chairman of Giao Phuc Commune People's Committee, Ninh Binh province said that the festival not only brings a joyful spring atmosphere but is also an opportunity for people to remember the merits of their predecessors in pioneering their homeland.
