HCM CITY — Sai Gon Children's Charity's 10th annual Cyclo Challenge closed at the Taipei School in the Phu My Hung new urban area on Saturday, raising an estimated US$80,000.
Paul Finnis, director of Sai Gon Children Charity, said: "We are very lucky to have so many wonderful and committed supporters here in Viet Nam and around the world.
The race aims to raise money to help disadvantaged Vietnamese children get an education and their families to break out of poverty.
The race day exceeded even the organisers' and spectators' expectations, Finnis said.
This year's Cyclo Challenge hosted for the first time the All-Star race with the participation of celebrities like Minh Beo, Johnny Tri Nguyen, Ngo Thanh Van, Luong The Thanh, Thanh Thuy and Phi Thanh Van.
Comedian Minh Beo said: "We have come together to do something to help disadvantaged children through activities like the Cyclo Challenge."
The race attracted the participation of 50 racing teams from various businesses, schools, consulates and other organisations in HCM City. The event was supported by numerous sponsors, spectators and volunteers.
The FV Hospital team won the first prize, followed by teams from Jardines and Caravelle Hotel.
The most beautiful cyclo this year belonged to Santa Fe, the best cheerleader award went to the FV Hospital and the award for the best banner was won by HSBC.
Sai Gon Children's Charity, the host and beneficiary of the event, will allocate the funds raised during the day for many educational projects, including the provision of school scholarships. — VNS