The fresh wave of coronavirus outbreak in Da Nang has forced the shutdown of all types of sports events in the city. All major and minor events have been cancelled, shifted or postponed as athletes, officials and spectators concern about the spread of the virus.

Da Nang's athletes are advised that large gatherings for outdoor practice activities should not take place during the 15-day social distancing period

Since Da Nang began the 15-day social distancing on 28 July, the Da Nang Athlete Training Centre under the municipal Department of Culture and Sports has quickly put in place drastic measures to stem the spread of the deadly virus.

Since 29 July, the Da Nang Athlete Training Centre has closed its doors until further notice.

About 400 athletes who are natives of Da Nang and are living at the Centre’s hall of residence for athletes are allowed to come back home. Meanwhile, around 300 athletes from other localities nationwide are required to strictly practise the city's social distancing rules when staying at the Centre’s hall of residence for athletes.

Meanwhile, around 80 members of the Dong Nghe Boat Racing Club are only allowed to attend indoor training courses in their club.

Members of the Diving and Swimming teams are asked to strictly practise the city's social distancing rules.

Mr Phan Thanh Toai, the Head of the municipal Diving and Swimming Club, said his club has about 40 swimmers and divers. All of them will be banned from going out during the 15-day period of social distancing.

“During the 15-day social distancing period, I and members of the coaching board will continue to organise training courses in pools but comply with the city’s social distancing restrictions. Also, the focus will be on ensuring environmental sanitation and food safety for the athletes” Mr Toai remarked.

By NGUYEN AN - Translated by M.D