Nguyen Thi Anh Vien

HA NOI (VNS) — Nguyen Thi Anh Vien received a Labour Order third class, and a merit certificate from Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung on Monday.

Her coach, Dang Anh Tuan, was also awarded a Labour Order, third class, for his contribution to Vien's success.

The awards are a big motivation for the swimmer about to head into the Southeast Asian Games competition, which begin next month.

Vien received the recognition for a remarkable career on the international stage. She grabbed gold medals at the second Youth Olympics, Asian championships, a US juniors tournament, and SEA Games. She took home silver at the Asian Games last year. — VNS