Viet Nam defended their title at the fourth World Vovinam (Vietnamese martial arts) Championship which wrapped up in Algeria on Saturday. — Photo Thanh Binh

HA NOI (VNS) — Viet Nam defended their title at the fourth World Vovinam (Vietnamese martial arts) Championship which wrapped up in Algeria on Saturday.

The team brought home 19 golds and five silver medals.

The hosts Algeria came second with 15 golds, 12 silvers and six bronzes. Italy came third with one gold, five silvers and two bronzes.

The three-day event witnessed the participation of 250 officials, referees and contestants from 20 countries worldwide.

The event was a great chance to promote the martial arts, the Vietnamese spirit and its cultural essence to international friends.

Currently, Vovinam is practised in 12 African countries and has become considerably popular since the African Vovinam Federation was established in 2012.

In Algeria only, there are more than 22,000 learners in 30 out of the country's 40 provinces and cities. — VNS