Halong Bay Marathon Eyes 18,000 Runners by 2026

The Halong Bay Heritage Marathon, set against the backdrop of Vietnam's iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, is projected to significantly expand its participant numbers to approximately 18,000 by 2026. The event features a full marathon (42.195 km), a half marathon (21.0975 km), as well as 10 km and 5 km races. The start and finish line will be located at the Quang Ninh Planning, Fair and Exhibition Palace. The course will once again utilize fully closed roads along Ha Long Bay, a route recognized by Runner's World UK as one of the world's 50 most scenic running courses. Previous editions have seen substantial participation, with the "VnExpress Marathon Ha Long" in 2025 drawing thousands. Last year's "Ha Long Bay Heritage Marathon" attracted over 13,500 runners, and the Ly Son Half Marathon saw nearly 1,800 participants. These figures highlight the growing popularity of marathon running in Vietnam and the strong appeal of unique locations like Ha Long Bay. The expansion plan for the Halong Bay Heritage Marathon is seen as a reflection of Vietnam's efforts to boost tourism and stimulate the local economy through sporting events. Within Vietnam's one-party system, the organization of such large-scale events is typically managed under government planning, aiming to leverage tourism resources and enhance the country's international image. Furthermore, amidst complex relations with China, Vietnam is perceived to be seeking diverse revenue streams through tourism and international events to maintain its economic growth.