Preserving cultural identity through traditional sports.

Amidst modern life, traditional sports such as throwing the ball, stick pushing, crossbow shooting, tug-of-war, and stilt walking are still preserved by the people of the highlands of Lai Chau...

In the daily lives of the ethnic minority people in the highlands of Lai Chau, traditional sports hold a special place. Familiar games such as throwing the ball, stick pushing, crossbow shooting, and tug-of-war are not only for entertainment but also serve as a connecting thread for the community, fostering solidarity and evoking pride in ethnic culture. It is from these values ​​that traditional sports have become an important part of cultural life, contributing to the preservation and promotion of cultural identity through many generations.

In the highland villages, folk games have long been an inseparable part of the spiritual life. When spring arrives or during village festivals, it's not uncommon to see young men and women from the Mong, Thai, Dao, and Lu ethnic groups enthusiastically participating in these games. The lively sounds of cheering, the vibrant atmosphere of the competitions, and the infectious laughter of the villagers create a vivid cultural tapestry where tradition and modernity blend naturally.

Crossbow shooting - a folk game of the ethnic minorities in the highlands of Lai Chau .

Recognizing the important role of ethnic sports in the spiritual life of the people, Lai Chau province has implemented many policies to preserve and promote the value of traditional sports. Mr. Tran Van Cong, Deputy Director of the Lai Chau Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, stated: The Provincial Party Committee issued Resolution No. 04-NQ/TU dated February 17, 2021, on preserving and promoting the traditional cultural identity of ethnic groups, linked with tourism development for the period 2021-2025, with a vision to 2030. Accordingly, the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism is tasked with advising on and implementing activities to preserve and promote ethnic identity through traditional sports. This is a way for people to understand that integration is necessary, but preserving the core cultural values ​​of the ethnic groups remains a crucial task. With extremely simple tools such as bamboo sticks, wooden crossbows, ropes, or brightly colored balls, the people of the highlands have created games that are both dramatic and captivating. Thanks to their simplicity and familiarity, these traditional sports are not only easily accessible but also evoke a spirit of competition, national pride, and community cohesion.

Walking on stilts – a traditional folk game that always attracts the participation of the people.

Many participants in traditional sports have expressed their enthusiasm for contributing to the preservation of traditional customs. Ms. Lo Thi Kin from Chieng Nua village (Le Loi commune) shared: "The villagers regularly practice the game of throwing the ball to perform during festivals and holidays and to participate in competitions. Maintaining this folk game not only brings joy but also makes the people proud to contribute to preserving the cultural beauty of our ethnic group."

Tug-of-war helps players improve their physical fitness and strengthen community bonds.

For Chang A Lu in Sin Ho commune, the game of "tu lu" is a source of pride for the Hmong people. Therefore, every Tet (Lunar New Year), the villagers gather to play "tu lu," both to improve their health and to create a joyful and united atmosphere. Lu shared: "Sports like stick pushing, throwing the ball, and 'tu lu' are not just games, but also precious spiritual assets that previous generations have preserved and passed down. Therefore, today's generation has the responsibility to continue preserving and maintaining them for future generations."

These folk games not only train the agility, dexterity, and physical strength of each individual, but also foster a spirit of solidarity among ethnic groups. Through each game, every gesture and smile of interaction helps people become more connected, understand, and appreciate each other's culture. When the younger generation participates and witnesses these games, they cherish even more the cultural identity of their family, clan, and ethnic group.

Leaders of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism present awards to the winning athletes in the stick-pushing event at the 2025 Lai Chau Provincial Ethnic Sports Festival.

Amidst the whirlwind of modern life and strong integration, preserving traditional sports is how people in the highlands affirm their identity. More than just games, traditional sports have become a bridge between the past and the present, between generations and between ethnic communities, thereby contributing to building a rich spiritual life and preserving and passing them on to future generations.

Source: https://baolaichau.vn/van-hoa/giu-ban-sac-van-hoa-qua-the-thao-dan-toc-1285469