The successful performance of Vietnamese athletes at the Asian Indoor and Martial Art Games 4 (AIMAG 4) has created an impetus to the country’s competition in more sports event in 2013, particularly the 27th South East Asian Games (SEA Games 27) in Myanmar at the end of the year.

With eight gold medals, 7 silvers and 12 bronzes, Vietnam ranked third at AIMAG 4 among 45 participating teams. Half of the gold medals came from swimming, muay Thai and chess, which are the strengths of Vietnam’s sport sector. These three sports are also expected to bring medals for Vietnam at SEA Games 27.

According to Lam Quang Thanh, deputy director general of the General Department of Sports, the sector is focusing investment on these three plus billiard in preparation for the upcoming regional event.

Vietnam plans to compete in 28 out of 33 events at SEA Games 27, hoping to win gold medals in at least 20 sports.

The performances of the athletes at the regional arena will serve as a basis for sport officials to decide priority sports at ASIAD 14 and Olympic 2016.

Over the past years, Vietnam always ranks among the top three at SEA Games.-VNA