The Asian Beach Games was declared closed this evening ©ITG

Lights out was declared at the Asian Beach Games in literal fashion here tonight at a Closing Ceremony where frequent power and sound cuts failed to dim a celebratory atmosphere.

The most noteworthy blip happened during the Vietnamese national anthem when the sound cut out with barely two bars sung.

Not to be deterred, the entire crowd immediately began singing themselves, drowning out the music when it eventually returned.

It was a fine example of unity overcoming adversity, an often-professed aim at sporting events.

Other problems happened during the parade and speeches, although television coverage was not thought to be affected.

Athletes marching onto the sand did not seem to care either.

No doubt they were relived that, unlike at the Opening Ceremony nine days ago, they could parade without being stuck in the middle of a torrential downpour.

In the absence of Olympic of Council of Asia (OCA) President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, official duties were performed tonight by Hong Kong’s OCA vice-president Timothy Fok.

"We have witnessed some very dramatic and exciting competitions but also some very friendly ones," he said.

"It is hard to believe the fifth Asian Beach Games is over already.

"All I can say to you is that I have had an exciting time.

"We have enjoyed the weather, the beach and sea.

"We have enjoyed the history and culture of Danang.

"On behalf of the OCA, I would like to declare the Games a complete success."

Lights go out on the stage at the Asian Beach Games ©ITG
Lights go out on the stage at the Asian Beach Games ©ITG

Fok praised the atmosphere at the venues as well as the "iconic" coastline for providing a "perfect backdrop" before officially ending the Games.

"The athletes have provided us with top class sporting action that shows the top level of beach and sea sport in Asia," he added.

"You have written a new chapter in the history of the OCA and have given us a truly magnificent Asian Beach Games.

"It is now my honour and duty to declare the fifth Asian Beach Games closed."

In the absence of a host for the next edition, the OCA flag was then returned to him by Vietnamese organisers.

In total, 3,242 athletes have participated here along with 1,217 officials.

Hosts Vietnam topped the medals table with 52 gold, 44 silver and 43 bronze.

Thailand placed second with 36 gold, 20 silver and 30 bronze.

China was a distant third with 12 gold, 18 silver and 19 bronze.

A total of 27 nations won at least one gold, with a further eight winning at least one minor medal.