Kha Ngan, DNSE Aquaman Vietnam 2024 ambassador, shares her passion for sports

You've participated in marathons and aquathlons frequently. What drew you to this path?

Besides acting, sports have always been an integral part of my life. It gives me strength, sharpness, awareness, and agility. During stressful times, sports are my therapy; they help me release negative energy. Most of my relationships, both professional and personal, connect to sports. It has helped me make new friends and broaden my horizons.

I started sports when I was 4 or 5, so it's in my blood. I’ve learned that aside from my favorite activities, I should always seek new experiences in sports.

Kha Ngan frequently does boxing, yoga, and pilates. Photo courtesy of Kha Ngan

I used to go swimming, do boxing, and hit the gym. After jogging became more popular, many of my close acquaintances started practicing and participating in races. I was also attracted to it.

Recently, I received an invitation to accompany the DNSE Aquaman Vietnam 2024, which is a swim-run race and I nodded in agreement without thinking.

What do you enjoy about the DNSE Aquaman Vietnam aquathlon?

I was genuinely surprised to be invited to the aquathlon. The organizers had followed my activities and thought I'd be a good fit. I love offering moral support, so I was thrilled at the chance to share positive energy with others.

Sports like trail running, duathlons, and triathlons are new to me. I’m even considering trying trail running soon. As for triathlons, with the swim-cycle-run combination, it’s a big commitment that requires time and training.

DNSE Aquaman Vietnam is unique because it combines swimming and running, both of which I enjoy. I have a deep love for swimming; I started training for competitions at 4 or 5. My grandmother would take me to practice at 5 a.m. every morning before school. Accepting this role has brought back many precious memories, especially the feeling of striving for a dream.

I stopped competitive swimming later on, so joining DNSE Aquaman Vietnam allows me to reconnect with that dream, to see if my passion is still as strong as it was back then. After all, the race’s theme is "The Race of Dreams."

What has sports brought to your life?

Swimming was my first sport. I remember going to the pool with my grandmother, swimming alongside teachers and friends. In primary school, I dreamed of winning medals. After earning a third-place medal, I set my sights on first place.

As I grew, so did my ambitions. Every time I achieved a goal, it became a cherished memory, preparing me for the future. DNSE Aquaman Vietnam has stirred up these old memories, inspiring me to share my energy and dreams with others.

This race is also a chance to swim in the sea for the first time, and hopefully, hold the finisher’s medal in my hand.

Kha Ngan finishes the 5km distance run in VM Quy Nhon race in June. Photo by VM

What activities will you participate in during the race?

As a race ambassador, I’ll keep everyone updated with essential race details. On race day, I have two options: be present to support the participants or, if I’m prepared both physically and mentally, compete alongside them.

Preparing for swimming involves dedication, so I’ve been training with coaches to ensure I’m ready. If I feel prepared by Dec. 1, I’ll participate in the Sprint Aqua distance (500m swim, 5km run).

Competing often differs from training, with environmental and social factors at play. I’m always motivated to push my limits, but I believe in knowing one’s boundaries to stay healthy. Representing the race, my role is to uplift others rather than take unnecessary risks. For me, sports and acting are alike: both are lifelong journeys, and the goal is to go far.

Has your athletic background helped you in acting?

Definitely! Boxing, for instance, has taught me patience and focus. It’s about more than just physical strength; it’s the waiting and observing that have become valuable habits in my work.

Running 5km requires pacing and control, which parallels acting. When shooting late into the night, I need to manage my time, organize effectively, and maintain my energy.

Thanks to sports, I even enjoy physically demanding scenes in my films. These moments energize me and feel like a break from work.

Kha Ngan usually jogs in the morning to practice endurance. Photo courtesy of Kha Ngan

Why is sports so meaningful to you?

If I couldn’t do sports, I’d be truly sad. Sports give me resilience, confidence, and health. Women are often seen as the "weaker sex," but to me, a beautiful woman has both intelligence and strength. We are our greatest support, and I want to share this energy with everyone.

Kha Ngan, born in 1997 in Ho Chi Minh City, is an actor. As a passionate sports lover, she trains in various activities. Now, she returns as the ambassador for DNSE Aquaman Vietnam 2024, a swim-run duathlon set for Dec. 1 at Ho Tram in Ba Ria - Vung Tau.

DNSE Aquaman Vietnam 2024 will feature national triathlon champion Lam Quang Nhat, top swimmer Anh Vien, and legless swimmer Hong Loi. Early Bird registration is open with entry fees of VND899,000 ($36.22) for the Sprint Aqua distance, VND1.09 million ($44.73) for Half Aqua, and VND1.69 million ($52.87) for the Aquaman Individual distance. Athletes can register here.