I am a football fan. I always watch football matches sitting up late to watch matches from different leagues such as La Liga in Spain, Bundesliga in Germany, Calcio in Italy and Premier League in England. I especially prefer to watch Premier League Football matches. I am a delirious fan of Liverpool F.C. Out of 20 football teams which are participating in this season, I like Liverpool the most. I always support Liverpool, whether they win or lose.
I enjoy watching their matches and applaud the team. Especially, I admire M Salah (Striker) most because he can make an excellent delivery of the ball into the net (the goal-posts). He is very quick at breaking through the defensive lines of the opposite teams. The defenders of the opposite teams are always thrown into helter-skelter by his attacks. No matter how hard the defenders try to block him, he manages to score the goals, weaving his way through the footballers of the opposite team. So, his performances can take the breath of the audience away. Due to his outstanding talent, he remains a top scorer of Premier League for some years in a row. Another Liverpool footballer who can catch my attention most is Van Dijk, one of the best defenders in the Premier League. He knows very well how to block the ball carried by the players of the opposite team. He is very strong, fast and tactful. He is very competent in sliding and heading away the ball. So, to the strikers of the opposite team, he appears to be a strong defensive wall difficult to penetrate. Moreover, he always leads the team during the match. Under his leadership, Liverpool won many games and even the Premier League Trophy at the end of the last season. I also like Florian Wirtz, a new winger, who recently transferred from Leverkusen (Germany), because he is good at dribbling, passing the ball and formulating the way of playing. I notice his performances always contribute to the victories of Liverpool over other teams. So, I think he is also a promising player for the team. In this season, Liverpool is struggling to hold fast to the current champion (2025).
Last week, I went to the Dagon University Football Stadium to watch the football match between the Sports Science Team and the Chemistry Football Team, which was scheduled to kick off at 9 am. It was after 8 am when I walked into U Soe Thein’s food stall next to Dagon University Football Stadium. It was congested with many university students waiting enthusiastically to watch the match. I walked straight, sat at an empty table and ordered food. While having breakfast, I looked out at Padauk Road, lined with Padauk trees. Some hostels stood beside this road. I found many students flocking toward the football stadium to support their major’s team.
After I had breakfasted, I drank green tea. Then, I went directly to the stadium, passing through the line of cars that were parked along Padauk Road. Some footballers were warming up in the stadium just before the kick-off. I entered the stadium through the middle gate and walked up to the upper terraces of the grandstand. Some spectators took the seats on the left side of the grandstand and some on the right side, depending on the position of the teams they were to cheer. I took a vacant seat on the left. The university students and some in-charge teachers were eager to watch the soccer competition. Some fans were beating the drums. Some were applauding their team loudly, holding up posters which read’ Our team must win’. The whole stadium was agog and active with a competitive mood. Referees and assistant referees in uniform were sitting at a table near the sideline in the shade of two large umbrellas. Next to them, a Red Cross group was stationed in the shade of a large umbrella. The first lineups of the teams were having their documentary photos taken.
Soon, the footballers filed out onto the field. The shouts of the spectators became louder. The Chemistry Team took the right side, wearing yellow jerseys and green shorts, while the Sports Science Team, on the left side in black and white kits. When they were all ready, the main referee started the match with a loud whistling sound. The Sports Science Team started to pass the ball. After receiving the ball, one of their midfielders ran with the ball through the footballers of the opposite team and delivered it to a left winger, who dribbled it and then dashed it to the main striker. He caught the ball with his right foot and shot it into the left corner of the goal-posts with the slash of his left foot. The goalkeeper of the Chemistry Team managed to defend it by diving out into that corner. Thereupon, he placed the ball before him and passed it to the right defender, who ran with the ball along the edge of the field. The footballers of the Sports Science Team followed him and tried to block him. He dodged them and passed the ball to a midfielder of his team, who wove his way through the defenders of the opposite team and gave the ball to the main striker of his team with his left heel. The striker also jumped up a few feet from the ground and headed the ball away into the goalposts of the Sports Science Team. The ball hit the net, and the whole stadium echoed with the applause of the spectators. From then on, the Sports Science Team intensified its attacks on the Chemistry Team. So, all footballers, except the goalkeeper, went forward simultaneously in the total football style. So, their counterattacks sent the Chemistry Team into chaos. Suddenly, while the footballers were being locked in a wrestle for the ball near the goal area of the Chemistry Team, one of the defenders of the Chemistry Team intentionally gave a kick on the calf of the main striker of the Sports Science Team, making him fall on his face. So, the main referee ran to the offender and showed a yellow card to him. Thus, the Sports Science Team chanced to deliver a free-kick into the goal-posts of the Chemistry Team. The main striker and captain of the Sports Science Team, one of the top scorers, was to deliver the free-kick at a 25 metre-distance from the goal-post. With a great desire to equalize his team, he, having concentrated on the ball and put forth all his efforts, shot it. All the spectators held their breath, and their eyes followed the ball. At first, it seemed to pass just above the upper bar of the goal-posts, but when it neared the goal-posts, it suddenly diverted its course and dropped down and went into the right upper corner of the goal-posts. All of a sudden, the pin-drop silence which had reigned for a few seconds burst out into a roaring applause. The first half ended with 1-1.
After a break, they resumed the game. The footballers made more efforts in the second half. So, throw-ins and fouls were frequent. The yellow cards were often shown. The Sports Science Team earned a corner kick eight minutes after the start of the second half, while the Chemistry Team got a throw-in a few minutes afterwards. In 62 minutes, the Sports Science Team had a clear shooting opportunity, but the Chemistry Team’s goalkeeper made an excellent save.

No team got the upper hand. Despite several attempts, neither team managed to score during the second half. But the Chemistry Team players had greater stamina, and, therefore, although a defender was injured in the 66th minute, he was able to continue playing. The Sports Science created several chances but failed to convert them into goals. The Chemistry Team gradually gained the upper hand and even hit the post in 76 minutes. Substitutions were made by both teams, and more yellow cards were shown as the match grew more violent.
The competition felt like a tug-of-war because some professionals who stood for the Myanmar National League played their best to be able to win. Spectators applauded loudly, waved placards featuring their favourite players, and occasionally jeered at opposing players. Soon after a water break, an injured footballer from the Chemistry Team limped off the field in 80 minutes. Both teams continued to fight until the final whistle. Despite several free kicks and chances, the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
When the referee blew the final whistle, the players shook hands and left the field. The spectators slowly dispersed from the stadium, excitedly ruminating over the match they had just enjoyed.
In conclusion, the author thinks that, nowadays, football is more than just a game or a sort of sport which creates a sound body and mind. It also opens up a way for young people to make their livelihood. Moreover, it teaches them valuable lessons in cooperation, discipline, and resilience. Moreover, participation in sports helps young people avoid illegal drugs and develop a healthy lifestyle. In addition, the author notices that the football tournament is held at Dagon University twice a year, and some footballers produced by Dagon University become Myanmar-selected footballers who can bring laurels to the country. So, it can be said that the football matches held at Dagon University can contribute considerably to the enhancement of the standard of the sport in Myanmar.

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Sport is more than a competition; it is a symbol of unity, cultural identity, and national dignity. For every nation, and for every athlete who stands on the field, sports serve as a reflection of discipline, perseverance, and collective spirit. Well-established principles of fairness, respect, and integrity guide international athletic events, ensuring that all nations — large or small — participate on equal footing. As one widely recognized saying reminds us, “Sportsmanship uplifts the spirit of a nation and preserves its honour.”
In the same spirit, Myanmar’s participation in the XXXIII SEA Games, hosted in Thailand, has become an important moment of national pride. Competing on an international stage allows Myanmar not only to display its athletic abilities but also to reinforce the values that define the country — unity, determination, and resilience.

The 33rd SEA Games in Thailand
This year, Thailand organized the 33rd South-East Asia Games across major sports venues in Bangkok and other designated host cities. The grand opening ceremony took place on 9 December in Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium, marking the beginning of a multi-sport event that lasted until 20 December.
More than 9,300 athletes from Asian nations participated, competing in over 50 sports disciplines, ranging from athletics, swimming, and martial arts to emerging sports and team competitions. All competitors — from renowned champions to young rising athletes — had the chance to showcase their nations’ excellence and commitment to sporting values.
Myanmar actively joined this international event, sending athletes to compete in 38 sports. For the athletes, wearing Myanmar’s national colours and competing among thousands of international participants is both an honour and a responsibility. Each discipline demands not only skill but also commitment to represent the country with dignity.

Myanmar’s Past Achievements and the Road to Improvement
At the 32nd SEA Games, Myanmar competed in 19 sports and earned a total of 114 medals, including 21 golds, 25 silvers, and 68 bronzes. These achievements were the result of the hard work of athletes, coaches, and sports organizations across the country. The medal results brought pride to the nation and demonstrated Myanmar’s potential in regional competitions.
Although the 33rd SEA Games present challenges far greater than regional events like the SEA Games, Myanmar’s participation signals continuous growth. Facing stronger competitors provides opportunities for learning, improving athletic performance, and raising the standards of national sports development.
Every medal earned — whether gold, silver, or bronze — carries significant meaning. It reflects the perseverance of the athletes and the support of millions of citizens cheering from home. Even in events where Myanmar does not secure a medal, participation itself is meaningful, as it contributes to long-term progress and international exposure.

Sports as a Pillar of National Strength
For Myanmar, sports carry deep symbolic value. To many citizens, athletic success represents far more than personal accomplishment; it is viewed as a form of service to the nation. Athletes who stand on international stages embody the courage, unity, and determination of the Myanmar people.
Participation in the SEA Games is not solely about winning medals; it is about showing the world the strength and spirit of Myanmar’s youth. Just as importantly, it reinforces national unity, inspires future athletes, and boosts the morale of citizens across the nation.
Sports also play a role in strengthening Myanmar’s international relationships. Through competition, countries build mutual respect and promote peaceful cooperation. In this way, sports function as a form of diplomacy, allowing nations to connect through shared values and human excellence.

The Spirit of Sportsmanship
Myanmar places great emphasis on the spirit of fair play. True sportsmanship is not measured only by victory but also by how athletes conduct themselves — with humility in winning and dignity in defeat. It is rooted in discipline, teamwork, respect for opponents, and unwavering dedication to improvement.
Myanmar’s concept of “Zwe, Lonela, and Wiriya” — discipline, perseverance, and noble effort — perfectly aligns with international values of sportsmanship. These qualities guide Myanmar’s athletes as they compete, reminding them that every step they take on foreign soil is a step taken on behalf of the entire nation. In this year’s SEA Games, Myanmar’s delegates demonstrated these values with sincerity and strength. Despite facing countries with larger populations and advanced sports infrastructures, Myanmar’s athletes never wavered in their commitment to compete honourably and wholeheartedly.

Opportunities and Future Potential
The 33rd SEA Games presents Myanmar with several growth opportunities. International competition exposes athletes to high-level training methods, advanced sports science, and new strategic approaches used by top athletes worldwide. Learning from these experiences helps Myanmar’s sports programs adjust and strengthen for future events.
Moreover, increased participation in international competitions encourages younger generations to pursue sports. When children and teenagers witness Myanmar’s athletes representing the country with pride, they are inspired to dream of becoming future competitors. This passion is essential for building a strong, sustainable sports culture.
For the national sports community, each international event is a chance to reflect on progress and identify areas for improvement — training facilities, coaching programmes, mental preparation, nutrition, and injury prevention. With the right investment and guidance, Myanmar’s potential for athletic achievement can grow significantly in the coming years.

A Celebration of National Identity
The SEA Games not only test physical ability but also highlight the identity and unity of participating nations. For Myanmar, the event represents a chance to demonstrate national dignity on an international stage. Every athlete who enters the competition arena carries the trust and pride of the Myanmar people. The participation of Myanmar’s athletes in the 33rd SEA Games shows the country’s readiness to stand alongside other Asian nations with confidence and determination. It reinforces the belief that Myanmar’s youth are capable, courageous, and committed to representing their homeland with honour.
The 33rd SEA Games stand as a powerful reminder of the importance of sports in shaping national pride and international understanding. Myanmar’s participation, achievements, and perseverance exemplify the true meaning of sportsmanship.
In brief, through discipline, unity, and unwavering effort, Myanmar continues to build a strong foundation for future athletic success. The athletes who represented the nation at this year’s event have not only competed on behalf of Myanmar but also have carried forward the spirit, dignity, and hope of an entire people.

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Western rowing as a sport traces its origins back to ancient Egypt and Rome, where boats were used for warfare, trade, and transportation. However, its evolution into the competitive sport we know today began in England during the 17th and 18th centuries. On the River Thames in London, races between watermen and boatmen emerged, drawing public spectators and sparking betting. The Doggett’s Coat and Badge race, first held in 1715, is recorded as the earliest formal rowing competition in the West, marking the sport’s official beginnings.
By the 19th century, rowing had become more structured and gained widespread popularity. The annual race between Oxford and Cambridge universities, starting in 1829, brought global attention to the sport. These events elevated rowing to a prestigious activity, leading to the formation of clubs and associations, particularly in Europe and America. Rowing was included in the modern Olympics in 1896, further solidifying its global appeal and establishing standardized regulations.
Western-style rowing was introduced to Myanmar during the British colonial period in the 19th century, primarily through the influence of British administrators, merchants, and missionaries. As Burma (as Myanmar was then known) became a key part of the British Empire after the annexation in 1826, Western recreational activities, including rowing, were brought to the colonial elite in cities like Rangoon (then Yangon). The British established social clubs and sporting facilities along the Yangon River and Inya Lake, where rowing boats were used for leisure and informal races, laying the groundwork for the sport’s entry into the country.
The sport initially remained exclusive to the colonial community and a small number of affluent locals who interacted with British circles. Rowing events were often organized as part of regattas hosted by clubs like the Rangoon Rowing Club, founded in the late 19th century, which catered to European expatriates. These gatherings mimicked the rowing culture of England, with races drawing spectators from the colonial elite. However, the sport’s reach was limited, as traditional Burmese boat racing, rooted in cultural festivals and royal traditions, dominated local water-based activities, overshadowing the Western version.
In the early 20th century, rowing began to gain a modest foothold among Myanmar’s emerging educated class, particularly through schools and universities influenced by British systems. Mission schools and institutions like Rangoon University introduced rowing as a competitive sport, though it remained a niche activity compared to soccer or athletics. After independence in 1948, Western rowing struggled to maintain prominence due to a focus on nation-building and limited resources for non-traditional sports. Despite this, small rowing clubs persisted in Yangon, and over time, the sport saw sporadic revival through international exchanges and regional competitions, though it never rivalled the cultural significance of Myanmar’s indigenous boat racing traditions.
In the early 1970s, Western-style rowing was introduced to Pathein College, taking root at the sprawling three-tiered lake, known as Kan Thone Sint, located in front of the college’s main building. This expansive body of water provided an ideal setting for the sport, and experienced faculty members, inspired by urban educational trends and possibly prior exposure to rowing in Yangon, initiated training sessions for students. Under their guidance, the sport began as a structured activity, fostering discipline and teamwork, though it remained a modest endeavour within the college’s extracurricular landscape.
In my second year at Pathein College, I became a member of the rowing team, a vibrant group led by our chairman, U Minn Than Thaung, the head of the Physics Department. In the photograph, he’s the one seated on the pontoon beside the rowers, dressed in civilian clothes and wearing glasses. The team in the boat included U Soe Myint as coxswain, U Tun Hyke at a stroke, followed by U Thein Win, and U Thet Oo behind him. Standing at the back were our female team members, all dedicated tutors, though I only clearly recall Daw Cherry on the far right. Under U Minn Than Thaung’s supervision, they were all training diligently at Kan Thone Sint Lake to guide and instruct student members like me, shaping us into a cohesive and disciplined team.
When I joined the rowing team, I quickly realized that Western-style rowing was far more challenging than I had imagined, a truth that dawned on me only as training progressed. We didn’t start on the boat right away. First came warm-up exercises, followed by practice on a stationary “fixed staff” boat on the shore. Here, we learned proper body posture: gripping the oar, securing our feet firmly in the footrest straps, and sliding smoothly on the movable seat beneath our hips. The technique involved pulling the oar with the forearms initially, drawing it toward the chest, and then locking the arms and oar in place while using leg power to push back. Next, we tilted our torsos slightly backwards, extended the oar forward, and simultaneously used leg strength to slide the seat forward again – all in a controlled, repetitive motion. The training wasn’t open-ended; with other trainees waiting, each of us got only about 15 minutes per session. If time allows, we could wait for another turn. Every minute was logged, and only after accumulating a set number of training hours were we permitted to step onto an actual boat.
Once four trainees completed their required time on the fixed staff, they were allowed to board a real boat, guided by an experienced coxswain, a skilled tutor. The first couple of days on the water were far from smooth, with beginners struggling to row in sync. From boarding to disembarking, the coxswain issued commands solely in English, such as “Stand by crew”, “Hands across”, “One foot in”, and “In together”, creating a disciplined rhythm. Initially, we practised the “touching” technique, where the oar lightly brushed the water’s surface during the recovery phase. As we grew more proficient, we advanced to “row”, a method where the oar cleared the water entirely during recovery, allowing the boat to glide swiftly. The command “Next stroke … Row” electrified us, igniting excitement among the rowers. Another thrilling order was “Harder,” used during races to push us to overtake rival boats with every ounce of strength, driving us to row with fierce determination.
Rowing on the water looks effortlessly stylish from the shore, with rowers in crisp white shirts, trousers, socks, and canvas shoes, powering a boat that glides rhythmically across the surface — an inspiring sight. Yet, during intense rowing, a single misstep can disrupt everything. If a rower mistimes the oar’s recovery and the blade catches the water awkwardly while the boat is moving, the oar’s handle can jam against them, halting their ability to continue. In a race, this almost guarantees a loss. The rower also risks injury from the sudden resistance. I’ve experienced this myself and seen it happen to others often, especially during the high-energy “Row” command when we’re rowing with full passion. Precision in our movement is critical; one person’s mistake can throw the entire boat into chaos.
Under the dedicated guidance of U Minn Than Thaung and the entire team of tutors and demonstrators, I mastered the art of Western-style rowing, a skill I cherish deeply. Their selfless commitment to teaching left an indelible mark on me, and even now, I remain profoundly grateful for their kindness. For someone like me, a farm-bred from the countryside, the idea of rowing in the Western style was beyond imagination — something I could hardly dream of achieving. Their patience and expertise transformed that distant possibility into reality, and I owe them an immense debt of gratitude for shaping my journey.
Attending Pathein College opened doors I never thought possible, and meeting these remarkable teachers was a turning point. Without spending a single kyat, I gained access to a valuable skill that enriched my life. The opportunity to learn rowing under their mentorship was not just an education but a rare privilege, one that bridged the gap between my humble roots and a world of new experiences. The discipline, teamwork, and confidence I developed through rowing remain with me, a testament to the transformative power of their instruction.
This experience was a once-in-a-lifetime chance, one I consider extraordinarily fortunate to have received. The tutors’ encouragement went beyond technique; they instilled a sense of pride and possibility in all of us. For a rural student like me, mastering such a sophisticated sport was a profound achievement, made possible only through the college’s environment and the generosity of teachers who believed in us. I carry the lessons from Kan Thone Sint Lake with me always, a reminder of how education and opportunity can change the course of a life.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

The national-level sporting event was grandly and ceremoniously held at the national stadium on 9 December, where athletes from different regions of the country are currently participating in various sports competitions. In preparation for the games, athletes from each region have been actively training and preparing in their respective sports. The relevant state and regional governments have been providing systematic support, and organizing necessary facilities and resources.
The opening ceremony was will be held with grandeur at the national level, and athletes, sports organizations, coaches, and experts have been diligently working to ensure the event’s success. The national government has placed great importance on the development of the sports sector, which is evident from the extensive coverage in newspapers, sports programmes, and broadcasts, all showing the government’s commitment to enhancing sports in the country.
The national sports competitions were first held in 1992 in Yangon, and the second event was held in 1994, followed by the third event in 1997, also in Yangon. The fourth national sports competition was held in 2015 in the capital, Nay Pyi Taw. This year, in December 2024, the fifth national-level sporting event is being held again in Nay Pyi Taw, with athletes from various regions and states, as well as representatives from government ministries and departments, participating in the event.
The country’s administrative council has emphasized the importance of promoting the health and well-being of all citizens through sports. To achieve this, the government has been actively encouraging the participation of all people in sports, and there are various sports events organized throughout the country in line with the seasons. Additionally, government ministries, departments, universities, and schools regularly organize sports competitions to promote physical fitness and community engagement.
The national sports competition is not just a simple sporting event, but a highly significant national-level event. It is organized with high quality, systematically, and professionally, ensuring that the athletes’ participation is not only about sportsmanship but also about fulfilling their national duty. These competitions inspire love for the country, patriotism, and unity, fostering a sense of togetherness and collaboration. The sports events contribute to peace and harmony, providing an opportunity for citizens to come together for a common cause, and creating an environment where mutual respect and cooperation thrive, leading to a peaceful and prosperous nation.
In the past, Myanmar’s sports world was recognized across Southeast Asia and the wider Asian region for its remarkable achievements in various sports events. Myanmar’s involvement in the Asian Games and other regional sports competitions led to the country gaining recognition and prestige. Athletes from Myanmar proudly represented their nation, carrying the national flag with honour, and participating in competitions where they showcased great skill and determination. Myanmar’s athletes have earned significant respect for their hard work and achievements, and their dedication is widely remembered. Even as they faced challenges, their efforts in representing Myanmar in international sports competitions have made a lasting impact.
Renowned athletes from Myanmar and ethnic nationalities have excelled on the international stage, particularly in Southeast Asia (SEA Games) and Asian sports competitions, earning prestigious awards and recognition.
Notable names include Mi Tone Naw, Shin Bway Ghan, Gracikar, Khin Khin Htwe, Ma Khin Pu, May Thu, Jennifer Tin Lay, and Khin Than Nwe, known for their achievements in athletics. Bo Aye Ko, a celebrated champion, and swimmer Tin Maung Ni, a medallist in swimming. Than Than Swe, a sharpshooter, and Mya Aye, an expert in bar sports. Football champions such as Bogyi Ba Hadu, Ko Ko Gyi, Hla Kyi, Ba Pu, and Khin Maung Tun. (Many notable names of our athletes are still left.) These athletes, along with many other exceptional sportsmen and sportswomen, have brought pride to Myanmar and showcased the high caliber of Myanmar’s talent in Southeast Asia and Asian sports arenas.
As I was drafting this piece, I came across the news that Ye Htun Naing, representing Myanmar at the 15th World Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship held in the Maldives, achieved an extraordinary feat. Competing in the 75-kilogramme men’s bodybuilding category, he outperformed numerous international competitors to claim the first prize and the world champion title. This remarkable achievement filled me with immense pride and joy. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Ye Htun Naing.
The State Administration Council Government has continued Myanmar’s tradition of honouring athletes who excel at international competitions by awarding medals of gold, silver, and bronze. Similarly, under previous governments, Myanmar athletes who achieved distinction in international competitions, including the Asian Games and Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, were recognized and celebrated at the national level for their remarkable contributions. These commendations highlight Myanmar’s ongoing commitment to honouring its outstanding athletes, past and present, who have brought glory to the nation through their skill and dedication.
The National-Level Sports Festival, marking its Fifth edition, are currently being held from 9 to 20 December 2024. This grand event brought together ethnic brothers and sisters from various regions and states across the country. Participants gathered in an atmosphere of camaraderie, mutual respect, and warm friendships. With a strong spirit of sportsmanship, the festival is showcasing the skills and abilities of athletes in a wide array of competitive sports, aiming to foster unity and excellence.
The development of sports is a reflection of a nation’s progress and the collective spirit of its people. It not only highlights the ability to excel but also fosters the growth of human resources, contributing to the comprehensive development of a country. Moreover, promoting sports serves to elevate the prestige of the nation and its people on both regional and global stages.
Sports also play a vital role in cultivating patriotism and strengthening national unity. By instilling these values, it contributes to the growth of a strong national spirit. Therefore, the advancement of sports should be prioritized alongside education to shape well-rounded individuals.
From an early age, students must be encouraged to engage actively not only in academics but also in sports. Parents and teachers have a crucial role to play in nurturing this balance, ensuring that young people develop the discipline, teamwork, and resilience that sports can provide. The Fifth National Sports Festival is now underway with great anticipation and success. To ensure active participation and outstanding achievements, athletes from various states and regions across the country are diligently participating in the competition.
As the festival is ongoing, athletes are competing and, showcasing their skills and determination. The grand opening ceremony, planned to be held with national-level prestige and grandeur, marked a significant milestone in Myanmar’s sports history. Organizing committees and various teams are currently working tirelessly, making all necessary arrangements to ensure the event’s smooth execution and ultimate success.
The opening and closing ceremonies of the inaugural National Sports Festival are well-planned with national-level grandeur and splendour. Students, performers, and officials from various departments participated and contributed to these events to ensure a flawless presentation. Similarly, preparations were also made for the hoisting of the national flag, as well as the flags of states and regions, which will take place at the Wunna Theikdi Sports Complex, the primary venue for the event.
Adding a spectacular touch to the opening ceremony, a team responsible for aerial displays used helicopters to deliver the flags into the stadium from the sky. This team also conducted rigorous training sessions to execute the task with precision and excellence.
The successful conclusion of the inaugural National Sports Festival, organized with national-level prestige, promises to leave a lasting legacy. State and regional departments that participated actively, alongside their athletes who achieved remarkable success, have yet to honour these achievements. This includes awarding recognition and opportunities for further development, supporting outstanding athletes, and fostering their continued progress in the sports arena.
This event serves as a stepping stone for athletes who will represent Myanmar in the upcoming 33rd Southeast Asian Games in 2025 and other international competitions. It also provides an excellent platform for identifying and nurturing new generations of athletes from various states and regions, creating pathways for them to thrive on the global stage.
The festival, held at the Wunna Theikdi Sports Complex, showcased a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship, including grand opening and closing ceremonies. Athletes, students, artists, and officials have worked diligently to ensure its success, rehearsing tirelessly to deliver flawless performances. Highlights such as aerial displays with flags hoisted by helicopters added a touch of splendour to the ceremonies.
For sports-loving citizens of Myanmar, this festival is a source of immense pride and excitement. Spectators eagerly anticipate the opportunity to cheer on their favourite athletes and celebrate Myanmar’s sports culture and national unity. The festival stands as a beacon of progress, not only for sports but also for fostering national pride and solidarity.
Through meticulous planning and collective effort, the National Sports Festival promises to be a historic milestone, inspiring generations to pursue excellence and uphold the nation’s honour in the world of sports.

Source- The Global New Light of Myanmar

STEPPING into the vibrant world of Bassein Arts and Science College (now Pathein University) as a first-year student, I was eager to explore every new opportunity that came my way. From engaging lectures to a wide array of extracurricular activities, college life promised a wealth of experiences. Whether it was learning Japanese, trying my hand at Karate, or picking up a tennis racket for the first time, I was determined to make the most of it all. However, it was rowing that ultimately captured my heart.

This demanding yet rewarding sport quickly became my passion, symbolizing not just physical strength but the endurance of the mind and spirit. Little did I know, however, that unforeseen events would soon bring an abrupt and heartbreaking end to my rowing journey.

Everything in the new environment of Bassein Arts and Science College (now Pathein University) seemed exciting to me. It was my first time stepping into the college as a first-year student, and the atmosphere was full of new experiences. The lectures and practical work were captivating, but it wasn’t just the academics that drew my attention. The extracurricular activities were equally enticing, especially the Japanese language course, Karate training sessions in the evenings, and sports like tennis and rowing.

Some of my friends and I joined the Japanese language classes. These were taught by Saya U Saw Hlaing and Sayama Daw Cherry, both of whom had lived in Japan. The classes started at 4 pm and ended at 5 pm, and while we didn’t complete the course, the reason for dropping out escaped my memory. Perhaps it was the allure of another activity – the Karate training. I remember envying the students in their Karate uniforms, proudly displaying yellow, green, and black belts. Intrigued by their progress, one of my roommates and I decided to join the Karate course. However, we didn’t last long. Our instructor, Ko Myint Sein, a black-belt Karate master and final-year student at the time (later becoming a tutor in the Geography Department), was quite strict and often scolded us. After just a few days, we abandoned the training.

Before coming to college, I had been a badminton player in my hometown during my high school days. At Bassein College, I saw my two roommates, Ko Saw Lwin (from Pyay) and Ko Than Nyunt (from Okpo), both skilled tennis players. They owned tennis rackets and wore smart tennis uniforms as they headed to the court every evening. I was envious once again and thought I could easily pick up tennis since I had experience with badminton. One day, I joined them at the tennis court, eager to show my skills.

However, I quickly realized that playing tennis was not as easy as I had imagined. I could barely serve the ball across the net. To make matters worse, a group of girls from Myintzu Hall, whose windows overlooked the tennis court, laughed at my awkward attempts. That was the end of my tennis adventure.

Soon, my attention turned to the rowing club. Fortunately, Kan Thon Sint Lake, located right in front of the college, made rowing activities very accessible. The rowing club at Rangoon Arts and Science University (RASU) had shared four four-oared boats and other necessary equipment with us. I recall that the head of the rowing club was Saya U Minn Than Thaung, a lecturer from the Physics Department, while other trainers included Saya U Tun Hyke (Geography Department), Saya U Thein Win (Geology Department), Saya U Soe Myint (Botany Department), and Sayar U Thet Oo (Geology Department), who also happened to be our hall tutor.

Before we could get into the boats, we had to do hours of warmup exercises. Instead of rowing on the water, we were trained on fixed rowing machines, where the hours spent were carefully registered.

Only after completing a sufficient number of training hours were we allowed to step into the actual boats. These boats were Western-style four-oared vessels, and the rowing commands were all in English. Though my memory is a bit hazy, I still remember a few of the commands:

“Stand by, Crew!”

“One foot in!”

“In together!”

“Push away!”

“Toucher!”

“Next stroke, Row!”

“Harder!”

In rowing, the “Cox” is the leader who sits at the back, steering the boat and giving commands.

The crew consisted of four rowers, with the “Bow” being the rower farthest from the Cox and the “Stroke” sitting closest. I found the sport captivating, and within a month, I was rowing well. The tutors and trainers, all highly skilled, shared their knowledge generously, and I felt deeply committed to the sport.

The rowing club had a motto written above the entrance to the boat-keeping house: “Row Till You Are Dead.” I found it inspiring, as it symbolized the dedication and perseverance needed to excel in rowing. In this sport, unity is key – each crew member must synchronize their movements perfectly.

If even one rower is out of sync, the boat’s performance suffers, and the whole team can lose in a tournament.

There was a popular saying among university students about rowing: “If you don’t have a girlfriend, join the rowing and hiking clubs.” (မကြည်တောင်တက်၊ မရလှေလှော်) Although it was meant as a joke, I didn’t find any romance during my time at the rowing club, but that didn’t stop me from becoming a dedicated rower. I enjoyed every moment on the water.

Sayar U Min Than Thaung often gave some briefings about rowing to the new trainees. Some were forgotten, but some have been vivid in my mind up to now.

In Western-style boat rowing, the rowers have to follow a set of key disciplines to ensure smooth and efficient movement of the boat.

Some of the essential disciplines include: Unity and Synchronization: The most critical discipline in rowing is for all crew members to row in perfect unison. Each movement must be identical, from the timing of strokes to the power applied, to avoid disrupting the balance and speed of the boat.

Proper Technique: Rowers must maintain proper form and technique. This includes correct posture, grip, and stroke execution to maximize efficiency and minimize injury.

Endurance and Stamina: Rowing is physically demanding, requiring rowers to build their endurance and stamina to sustain high-intensity efforts over long distances without faltering.

Listening to Commands: The crew must strictly follow Cox’s commands. The Cox steers the boat and directs the crew’s actions, and rowers must respond immediately to instructions like “One foot in,” “In together,” “Next stroke Row,” and “Harder.”

Coordination of Power: The rowers need to balance power output, ensuring each stroke is forceful enough to propel the boat but not so uneven that it disrupts the boat’s glide.

Focus and Mental Toughness: Rowing requires sustained concentration, as distractions or loss of focus can break the rhythm.

Rowers must also have mental resilience, especially during long or competitive races. These disciplines combine to create the precision and teamwork required in Western boat rowing, where even a small deviation by one crew member can affect the entire boat’s performance.

However, 1975 brought unexpected misfortune. In that year, a major crisis hit Rangoon Arts and Science University (RASU), forcing all universities and colleges in the country to close.

We were all sent home for what turned out to be a long holiday of several months. When the situation eventually calmed down, the authorities decided to reopen the universities and colleges.

But bad luck struck again, this time in the form of a devastating cyclone. On 7 May 1975, a powerful cyclone with winds reaching 120 miles per hour tore through the Ayeyawady Division. It caused widespread destruction, blowing off roofs and collapsing buildings, including many at our college. The rowing club’s boat-keeping house was utterly destroyed, along with all the boats inside.

That storm marked the end of our beloved rowing club. The boats were gone, and with them, my dreams of rowing till the end.

The motto above the entrance, “Row Till You Are Dead,” still resonated with me, but circumstances had changed everything. I wanted to row for as long as I lived, but life had other plans.

The devastation of the cyclone not only swept away the boats but also took with it a piece of my spirit. The motto “Row Till You Are Dead,” which had once inspired me to push beyond my limits, now felt like a bittersweet memory, a reminder of the dreams that circumstances had taken away. Yet, despite the tragic end to my rowing journey, the lessons I learned – unity, perseverance, and mental toughness – stayed with me. Life, much like rowing, is unpredictable and filled with storms, but the discipline to endure remains. Though I could no longer row on the waters of Kan Thon Sint Lake, the resilience it had instilled in me continued to steer my life’s course. While the boats may be gone, the spirit of rowing lives on in my heart, reminding me that sometimes the journey matters more than the destination.

(This article is written in honour of the Bassein College Rowing Club.)

Source- The Global New Light of Myanmar