After two trips to Thua Thien-Hue province (in 1996, with his family and in 2016 as the U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam), Ted Osius will visit the ancient citadel for the third time as an athlete participated in the COUPE DE Hue Cycle Race 2018 on August 25^th -26^th. On this occasion, the former U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam granted an interview to Thua Thien Hue Online newspaper.

Ted Osius was interviewed by Thua Thien Hue Online newspaper.

Why did you choose to participate in this sporting event?

I participate in this event by two main reasons. Firstly, I love Hue city. My first visit to Hue city with my family is in 1996, and right after that, this place has growth to become one of my favorite places in the world.

Secondly, I knew the Coupe de Hue Cycle Race through my friend - Nguyen Trung Truc, whom loves Hue with all his heart, and I like cycling as well so I just signed up for the race.

What do you think about this sporting event? And have you ever participated in other similar events?

I cycled all over three regions in Vietnam, at end of 2015 and early 2016. I had wonderful experience with a 840km bicycle trip entitled “U.S-Vietnam: New Journey” from Hanoi to Hue city. And recently, I participated in sporting event “Ironman 2018” in Da Nang city.

I think, cycling is perfect way to experience Vietnam. You can see and feel the beauty of nature and daily life of Vietnamese people in general and Hue city in particular.

The then U.S. Ambassador Ted Osius arrived in the Imperial City of Hue during the journey by bicycle entitled “U.S.-Vietnam: New Journey”.

How do you feel about the ancient citadel and its people?

My family and I love Hue city. We love the food, history, hospitality and charm of the Imperial City. In 2016, I visited Hue as U.S. Ambassador to supervise the restoration of three altars and then a temple by Hue Monuments Conservation Centre. I was able to eat Hue beef noodle, drink wine and have a taste of the royal cuisine.

If any opportunities arise in the future, Hue is one of the places I always want to be back.

And is that the reason for your participation in the event?

Dai Noi (Inner city) is so beautiful, especially at night. The food and traditional dances are also great. But our children did not have the opportunity to see it. This time, we come to Hue with our children so that they can enjoy watching and experiencing the most beautiful of Hue.

Once you are no longer in Vietnam, would you participate in this race as a indirectly way to return to Hue?

Oh, of course!

Through "Coupe de Hue", what message do you want to send to Hue city?

Thank you for your kindness and hospitality. Hue plays an extremely important role in the history and culture of Vietnam. You have the right to be proud of your beautiful city.

Thank you so much!

Translated by Van Anh