SEA Games opening ceremony
Photo courtesy: REUTERS/Athit Perawongmetha
Dazzling lights, spectacular dance and music, hot air balloon exhibit, and glittering fireworks capped off the 31st Southeast Asian Games opening ceremony at the My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi, Vietnam, on May 12.
After almost two decades, SEA games returned to Vietnam with the slogan 'For A Stronger Southeast Asia.'
During the two-hour show, an exuberant atmosphere of traditional arts and music washed off the gloomy weather, with more than half of the 40,000-seat capacity fulfilling the stadium.
"On behalf of the leaders of Vietnamese party, state and government, thank you for participating in the opening of the 31st SEA Games in Hanoi," said Vietnam President Nguyen Xuan Phuc in a speech, launching the prestigious sports event.
"I declare the Games' opening and wish the Games a big success," he added.
Track and field star Quach Thi Lan lit the torch up high, symbolizing the start of the 12-day competition, along with the participation of over 5,467 athletes from 11 different nations.
The event was initially scheduled to take place in November 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 surge, the six-month delay was lifted.
While the Games officially opened, this season awaits 40 different sports across 526 events that will take place until May 23.
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