Hosting a professional motorboat race, an opportunity for Binh Dinh tourism to take off

The professional motorboat race in Binh Dinh promises to open a turning point for marine sports in Vietnam, spreading a new model of sports economics linked to international events throughout the country.

From March 22nd to 24th, the UIM - ABP Aquabike World Championship took place at Thi Nai Lagoon, Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province, kicking off the Amazing Binh Dinh Fest 2024 series of events . Bringing together 55 outstanding racers from around the world, this year's race featured 55 top riders from all over the globe in Binh Dinh. Over three days (March 22nd-24th), domestic and international audiences were treated to a thrilling, impressive, and exciting performance.

*The art performance program livened up the Amazing Binh Dinh Fest Week. Photo: Diem Phuc*

According to the organizers, the majestic scenery of the blue sea combined with the talent and bravery of the athletes created a vibrant and exciting atmosphere in the stands, much to the delight of the visitors. Mr. Nguyen Thanh Quang, a tourist from Quang Nam , watched the thrilling races with his family. Mr. Quang shared: “This is the first time I’ve seen such an impressive high-speed water race. The dramatic chases and spectacular performances kept us captivated. I hope to be able to continue watching such spectacular races.” Phó Thủ tướng Trần Hồng Hà tiếp Phó Chủ tịch GFANZ Mary L.Schapiro

Phó Thủ tướng Trần Hồng Hà tiếp Phó Chủ tịch GFANZ Mary L.Schapiro

Chairman of the People's Committee of Binh Dinh province, Pham Anh Tuan, delivered the opening speech at the Amazing Binh Dinh Fest. Photo: F1

Assessing the potential for developing jet ski racing in Binh Dinh, Mr. Raimondo di San Germano, CEO of Aquabike Promotion, believes that Vietnam has enormous potential for this sport. “Jet ski racing is a very powerful sport. I believe this sport will have a bright future in Vietnam…,” Mr. Raimondo di San Germano shared. Cuisine captivates tourists. Alongside the jet ski race, the organizers of the Amazing Binh Dinh Fest also held many rich and diverse events and activities, including: A series of events connecting culture, sports, and tourism in Binh Dinh province with main programs themed “The Quintessence of the Martial Arts Land”.

In particular, 54 food stalls showcased typical and distinctive dishes from Binh Dinh, neighboring provinces, and South Korea. The rich and famous dishes such as Nem Cho Huyen (fermented pork sausage), Banh It La Gai (sticky rice cake wrapped in thorny leaves), and Banh Xeo Tom Nhay (shrimp pancake) attracted locals and tourists alike. Many locals, tourists, and even athletes promised to return to Binh Dinh to enjoy and experience the beautiful scenery, culture, and cuisine of this "land of martial arts and literature." "I really miss our cuisine. This is my second time returning, and it's been a wonderful time. After we finished the tournament, we had some time to rest and recover. We plan to visit and experience more in Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh province," shared Samuel Johansson (Sweden).

*Spectacular jet ski performances by the racers. Photo: F1*

Belgian athlete Quinten Bossche shared: "I felt warmly welcomed and enjoyed every moment at the tournament in Binh Dinh. This is a professional entertainment program, but there were so many spectators who came to enjoy the tournament and cheer on our athletes." "I would love to return to Binh Dinh for tourism and perhaps participate in the next tournament," Quinten Bossche expressed. Regarding the increase in tourists to Binh Dinh, the Director of the Department of Tourism, Tran Van Thanh, stated that during the week-long event, which included the jet ski race and other cultural, sports, and culinary events, the number of tourists visiting the province surged. In March, the number of overnight stays reached 430,000; the number of visitors to food stalls, the race, and other events and tourist attractions exceeded 1 million. The total for the first quarter increased 2.2 times compared to the same period last year.

*The food stalls offer a variety of delicious dishes. Photo: Diem Phuc*

“The Amazing Binh Dinh Fest race and week have brought the image of Quy Nhon, Binh Dinh province to friends both domestically and internationally. This is a great opportunity and potential for developing tourism in the province,” Mr. Thanh said. Chairman of the Binh Dinh Provincial People's Committee, Pham Anh Tuan, stated that the Amazing Binh Dinh Fest week, with its highlight being the Grand Prix of Binh Dinh 2024 international professional motorboat race, is a special, high-class sporting event, featuring top racers from around the world.

*The week attracted a large number of tourists. Photo: Diem Phuc*

"The race promises to open a turning point for marine sports in Vietnam, spreading a new model of sports economics linked to international events throughout the country. This is also an opportunity for delegates, distinguished guests, athletes, and tourists to have exciting experiences at Thi Nai Lagoon, enjoying the unique culinary flavors of this 'land of martial arts and literature,' thereby providing colorful, attractive, and dramatic entertainment. Through this event, Binh Dinh province hopes to enhance the effectiveness of promoting and communicating the image of the people and scenic spots of the province to domestic and foreign tourists and investors, thereby creating links and developing sustainable tourism between Binh Dinh province and reputable organizations, corporations, and businesses nationwide and internationally," Mr. Tuan said.

Diem Phuc

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