The torch of Cambodia's 5th National Games arrived in Kep province on Saturday, bringing the spirit of sportsmanship and national unity to the coastal province ahead of its hosting of the triathlon competition in November.
The torch relay ceremony was presided over by Ke Bunkheang, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, representing Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sport.
Kep Governor Som Piseth, General Department of Sport Director General Pon Sok and around 1,172 citizens also attended the ceremony.
Key Facts
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 5th National Games |
| Torch relay location | Kep province |
| Games theme | “Sports for National Unity” |
| Triathlon venue | Angkol Beach, Kep |
| Triathlon dates | November 5–8 |
| Disciplines | Swimming, cycling and running |
| Ceremony participants | About 1,172 citizens |
| Main sporting message | Sportsmanship, friendship, unity and peace |
Torch Represents Unity and Sportsmanship
Welcoming the torch to Kep, Ke Bunkheang described the relay as an important moment for Cambodia's sporting development.
He said the torch represents more than athletic competition, symbolising sportsmanship, friendship and unity, while carrying a message of peace across the country.
The 5th National Games are being held under the theme “Sports for National Unity”, highlighting the role of sport in bringing communities together and encouraging young people to maintain an active lifestyle.
The Games also reflect the government's slogans “One youth, at least one sport for life” and “Sports Live in Peace,” alongside five key educational campaigns.
Kep Prepares to Host National Games Triathlon
The torch's arrival also highlights Kep's role as one of the host locations for this year's National Games.
The coastal province will host the triathlon competition at Angkol Beach, where athletes will compete across three disciplines:
Swimming
Cycling
Running
The triathlon is scheduled to take place from November 5 to 8, giving athletes and organisers additional time to prepare for the coastal competition.
Hosting the triathlon will bring a national-level sporting event to Kep's coastal setting, adding another dimension to the province's role as a destination for sports activities.
Angkor Times Analysis
The torch relay gives Kep a visible role in the national sporting calendar while building anticipation for the province's upcoming triathlon competition.
The choice of a coastal venue for a multi-discipline event involving swimming, cycling and running also places Kep's natural setting at the centre of the competition.
From a tourism perspective, a national sporting event can provide an additional reason for athletes, officials and supporters to visit the province. However, the source does not provide figures on expected visitors, accommodation demand or economic impact, so the scale of any tourism benefit cannot yet be quantified.
The broader message of the National Games is focused on using sport as a vehicle for unity, friendship, peace and youth participation, extending the significance of the competition beyond medals and athletic performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 5th National Games theme?
The theme is “Sports for National Unity.”
Where will the triathlon be held?
The triathlon will take place at Angkol Beach in Kep province.
When is the triathlon scheduled?
The competition is scheduled for November 5 to 8.
What sports are included in the triathlon?
Athletes will compete in swimming, cycling and running.
How many people attended the Kep torch relay?
Around 1,172 citizens attended the ceremony, according to the source.
What does the National Games torch symbolise?
According to Ke Bunkheang, it represents sportsmanship, friendship and unity and carries a message of peace across the country.