South African Runner Aims for Sub-2:50 at VnExpress Marathon Da Nang

Jaco Robert Macgregor (43), a South African who transformed his unhealthy lifestyle into a passion for running, is targeting a personal best of under 2 hours and 50 minutes at the upcoming VnExpress Marathon Da Nang this weekend. This will be his second attempt at a full marathon. Seven years ago, Jaco realized his health was deteriorating due to late nights and an unhealthy lifestyle, leading to weight gain. What started as a health goal gradually became an integral part of his life. He discovered a thrill in pushing his limits, particularly through trail running. Over the past seven years, he has completed numerous ultra-trail races, participating in about 4-5 races annually. Macgregor shared that running has led him to new places. Driven by his passion for the sport and his work, he moved from his birthplace in Cape Town, South Africa, to Da Nang, Vietnam. He now manages several businesses and considers the coastal city, where he has lived for six years, his second home. At 43, marathon running consumes a significant portion of Jaco's free time. Balancing this passion with work and family commitments is not easy. Most of his training sessions are conducted early in the morning, before his wife and daughter wake up. He does not want his running to take away from family time or affect his work. "Finding balance is crucial. I also hope to teach my daughter the importance of an active and healthy lifestyle," he said. His wife, Thảo, who has a high level of discipline and enjoys physical activity, fully supports his running passion. However, she admits she feels more at ease when he competes in road marathons rather than challenging trail runs. Thảo is also a sports enthusiast, pursuing bikini bodybuilding, and does not run, concerned about its impact on muscle mass. Consequently, Jaco often trains and competes alone. Yet, at the finish line, his two loved ones are always waiting. "My wife and daughter often wait for me at the finish line. That means a great deal to me and is an indispensable motivation for every race," the South African runner stated. While he has extensive experience in ultra-trail racing, road marathons are still a relatively new experience for Jaco. Before registering for the VnExpress Da Nang International Marathon Herbalife Cup 2026, he had only completed one full marathon. On July 19, Jaco will stand at the start line for the 42km distance for the second time, aiming for a completion time between 2 hours and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 50 minutes. To prepare, he maintains an average weekly training volume of around 90 km, increasing to 110-120 km during peak weeks, incorporating various speed drills. He also emphasizes nutrition, balancing protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to aid recovery and maintain performance. Jaco noted that the hot and humid summer weather in Da Nang presents a challenge that requires thorough preparation. He has increased his training sessions in hot weather and uses saunas to help his body adapt. Living in the "city of bridges" also offers an advantage. Jaco frequently runs up and down bridges to adapt to inclines. "The tournament is held right in the city I live in, so I am very familiar with the course. That's an advantage I should leverage." He believes the Da Nang course has unique attractions that running enthusiasts must experience at least once. "Da Nang has the advantage of combining many different landscapes. The sea, mountains, and river create a beautiful course. I think these elements can attract many international runners," he commented. The VnExpress Da Nang International Marathon Herbalife Cup 2026 is not the end of Jaco's summer racing plans. After the 42km race on July 19, he will tackle a 55km ultra-trail race before participating in his third marathon in Quảng Trị. "It will be a busy but exciting three weeks. I'm really looking forward to it," he said. Besides his family and personal passion, Jaco is grateful to be part of Vietnam's running community, which serves as a significant training motivation. "Vietnamese people always welcome me very warmly. I truly cherish the opportunity to share my passion for running with such a wonderful community," the runner nearing 50 shared.