Ha Long Bay International Marathon to Host 18,000 Runners in 2026

The 2026 edition of the Ha Long Bay International Marathon was announced on August 2nd in Bai Chay ward, Quang Ninh province. Organizers anticipate a record-breaking participation of approximately 18,000 runners, including around 5,000 international athletes. The event is scheduled to take place from November 20th to 22nd, with the main competitions held on November 22nd. Participants will compete across four standard distances: 42.195km, 21.0975km, 10km, and 5km. The start and finish lines will be located at the Quang Ninh Planning, Exhibition and Conference Center on Tran Quoc Nghien street. The race course is designed to offer runners a unique experience amidst the majestic natural landscape of the Ha Long Bay World Natural Heritage site. The organizers have optimized and secured both directions of the road to ensure safety and allow athletes to achieve their best performances. Mr. Nguyen Tri, General Director of DHA Vietnam, the event's owner and organizer, stated that the continued certification with the World Athletics Label is a testament to the marathon's commitment to professionalism and excellence. He noted that this recognition by the world's leading athletics governing body validates the event's organizational quality and international standards, further solidifying Vietnam's position on the global marathon map. Nguyen Thanh Tung, Deputy Director of the Quang Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, highly praised the organizing committee's dedication, enthusiasm, and professionalism in continuously innovating and improving the quality of the race. The Ha Long Bay International Marathon is the only race in Vietnam to receive the World Athletics Label Road Race certification, opening opportunities to attract more elite athletes and the international running community to Ha Long. During the announcement, the Green Dragon Cup, a platform for businesses to enhance connectivity and promote sportsmanship, was also introduced. This event is positioned as a contributor to international exchange, domestic health promotion, and tourism development within Vietnam's single-party political system. Source: Nhan Dan