The competition, which runs from July 17 to 23, has attracted more than 500 participants from 18 provinces and cities, who will contest in six categories related to knowledge and skills to prevent drowning and 36 swimming events by age group.

Organised by the Sub-department of Physical Education and Sports and the province Department of Culture and Sports and Nestlé MILO, this year the competition is in six age groups between six to 18 years in all the swimming strokes and in rescuing people in distress.

Besides the opportunity to exchange experiences in drowning prevention and rescue, the event also helps sporting authorities unearth swimming talent.

Speaking at the opening ceremony on July 19, Nguyễn Ngọc Anh, representative of the Sub-department of Physical Education and Sports and head of the competition organizing committee, said to safeguard children from drowning, the department and Nestlé MILO organise many activities to raise awareness and train children in preventive skills.

Philomena Tan, MILO and dairy product business unit manager at Nestlé Vietnam, said participating in sports, especially water sports, helps children acquire survival skills and improve their health.

Nestlé wants to join hands with parents to build a strong-willed generation, which would have a positive impact on society in future, she added. /.