Da Nang Marathon Draws Record 13,000 Runners, International Field Competes

The VnExpress Marathon Da Nang 2026, a major running event, was held in the central Vietnamese city of Da Nang, attracting a record 13,000 participants. The race kicked off early on July 19th, with the challenging 42km category starting at 3 AM. In this event, 24-year-old Le Van Huong from Nghe An province, a proven talent with two consecutive half-marathon championships, aggressively took the lead from the outset. His bold strategy, aiming for victory despite the demanding conditions of 28 degrees Celsius, drew significant attention. In the women's 42km race, Le Thi Lam also led the pack, indicating Vietnamese athletes were setting the pace in both categories early on. The event featured a strong international field, with over 1,000 foreign runners from 52 countries, including elite athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, and Japan. The race course offered a scenic route along the Han River, coastal areas, and across iconic Da Nang bridges such as Thuan Phuoc and Tran Thi Ly. Participants experienced a unique journey, blending urban landscapes with natural beauty. Mr. Tao Viet Hai, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Culture and Sports, commented on the record 13,000 participants, stating, "This demonstrates the growth of the running movement and the synergy between the VnExpress Marathon brand and the attractive city of Da Nang." He described the event as a "grand festival eagerly awaited by the public," anticipating it would foster a love for running and promote Da Nang's open and friendly image both domestically and internationally. The organization of the marathon involved over 1,000 volunteers and 200 crew members, with substantial support from local authorities including police, traffic, and medical personnel. The total prize money, including cash and in-kind awards, exceeded 1.3 billion VND (approximately $55,000 USD), to be distributed among top performers across various categories. VnExpress Marathon, as Vietnam's largest running series, prioritizes professionalism, safety, and engagement. The Da Nang edition is solidifying its status as a premier international event.