Parents began bringing their children to the starting area on Tran Nhan Tong walking street, Hai Ba Trung ward, from 6 a.m. Before the race, organizers, joined by artists and key opinion leaders, brought a large birthday cake onto the stage and sang to celebrate the 5th anniversary of Kun Marathon Hanoi. Since 2020, the event has promoted physical activity among tens of thousands of children, becoming a cultural feature of the capital during late autumn and early winter.

2,000 runners interacted before the start on the morning of 29/11. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

The weather on the morning of 29/11 was around 14 degrees Celsius, relatively cold for outdoor activities. Many parents dressed their children in thermal shirts under their event jerseys, encouraging them to warm up. Some children bravely faced the weather, wearing only their jerseys, shorts, and running shoes, embracing a true runner's style.

The spirit of physical activity was evident when the MC asked, "Who wants to win?". Thousands of hands shot up, accompanied by unanimous cheers. Outside the fence, many parents held recording devices, awaiting the start of the race.

Similar to other Kun Marathon events, child runners were divided into age groups, distinguished by jersey color. The 6-year-old group, the youngest, was given priority to run first. As the starting signal sounded, the children quickly rushed onto the track. The track was 100% closed, with over 100 volunteers and medical staff on standby to provide support.

Child runners on the track on the morning of 29/11. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

Along the way, the children navigated various physical challenges, including inflatable obstacles and tunnels. These age-appropriate challenges added excitement to the race, requiring them to combine agility and dexterity to overcome them. Upon crossing the finish line, the children received care, recharged their energy with Kun milk, and were awarded medals.

A hallmark of the Kun Marathon is the smiles seen throughout the race. Children immersed themselves in the vibrant post-school atmosphere, connecting with friends and family. While many were initially shy or shed tears during their first large event, they quickly regained their composure. The children's energy seemed to chase away Hanoi's winter chill.

A 6-year-old child smiling while running on the track. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

Watching his 8-year-old son, Anh Minh, Nguyen Anh Kiet from Hai Ba Trung ward, shared his son's clear excitement for participating a second time. He had learned about the event last year and prepared to register his son early this year.

"Here, my son gets to run, meet friends, and even his idols. Although the event is free, it is professionally organized, well-structured, and safe for children. Next year, I will invite more children from our relatives to join", Kiet said.

After over an hour, Kun Marathon Hanoi concluded, leaving many with strong emotions. According to the organizers, sports connect generations, helping children learn perseverance and develop physical activity habits, while bringing parents closer through seemingly simple yet meaningful moments.

Hoai Phuong