(VOVworld)- The 8^th National Phu Dong Sports Festival opened in Can Tho city yesterday. Addressing the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Education and Training Le Quang Quy praised the 6,500 athletes for their achievements. The athletes will compete for 476 medals in 19 events. Mr. Quy said the festival will help encourage sports programs in schools."Over the past 60 years, the Phu Dong Sports Festival has been an effective educational activity promoting sports activities in schools. The festival has also helped foster sports talent", said Mr. Quy..