The event was part of the VnExpress Marathon Can Tho 2025, with the main race taking place on the morning of 14/9. Promoting physical activity for children, Kun Marathon has become a popular event for youngsters in several provinces and cities this year, including Quang Ninh, Da Nang, and Khanh Hoa, before making its debut in Can Tho.

Parents closely followed their children's every step along the course. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Parents closely followed their children's every step along the course. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Despite the 7 a.m. start time, the Song Hau park was bustling with activity early in the morning. Many parents brought their children early to prepare and soak in the atmosphere. Some adjusted bibs and offered words of encouragement before the race. "This was our first time participating, and my child was a bit surprised. But after meeting many other children their age and experiencing the lively atmosphere, they became excited and ready for the race," shared Quynh, mother of a 6-year-old.

The Kun Marathon Can Tho 2025 course was set within Song Hau park, located along the Hau river in central Can Tho. This spacious area is a popular exercise spot for locals. Entrances were arranged to allow parents quick access from the parking area to the drop-off point for the organizers. This ensured that even late arrivals could quickly reach the stage for safety briefings and warm-up instructions.

Parents offered last-minute advice and encouragement before the start. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Parents offered last-minute advice and encouragement before the start. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

The Kun runners were then divided into age groups, each with a different colored shirt, and started at different times. Those waiting to start interacted with key opinion leaders (KOLs). Finishers received medals and were reunited with their parents. Many children then explored the activity area, enjoying games like "Strong Race Track," "Super Kun Hands," and "Super Memory."

Along the course, excitement filled the air as parents ran alongside their children, cheering them on and capturing memorable moments. Some children, participating for the first time, appeared overwhelmed, with a few even shedding tears amidst the large crowd.

Hang, who brought her child for their first race, admitted that her 6-year-old was shy and even cried upon entering the starting area. She and her husband offered continuous encouragement throughout the race to boost their child's confidence. "Seeing my child take each step independently brought me great joy," she said.

Children enthusiastically navigated the obstacles along the course. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Children enthusiastically navigated the obstacles along the course. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Meanwhile, Binh, father of a 9-year-old, beamed as his child ran and waved enthusiastically to the spectators. "My child is usually quite reserved, yet today, they confidently interacted and laughed with everyone along the course. I was truly surprised and very proud," he shared.

Inside the course, volunteers were stationed to assist the Kun runners. The presence of KOLs like Be Sun, Duy Anh, Hao Khang, Trong Thy, Meo Simmy, and Phong Can further motivated the children.

Many parents expressed that involving their children in large-scale sporting events is a valuable way to foster independence, cultivate sportsmanship, and promote personal growth.

According to a representative of the organizing committee, Kun Marathon aims to be more than just a sporting event; it strives to be a cultural gathering that strengthens community bonds and promotes a healthy and joyful lifestyle among children.

Hoang Dan

Kun Marathon is a children's race within the VnExpress Marathon system, previously held in Hanoi, TP HCM, Hue, Ha Long, Da Nang, and Hai Phong. Each event attracts thousands of children and aims to provide a platform for physical activity and nurture a sporting spirit in the younger generation.

VM Can Tho is the first VnExpress Marathon event in the Mekong Delta region, following seven years of establishing the brand in major cities across central and northern Vietnam. Race kits were distributed on 12-13/9. The first race, a 42 km run, began at 2:30 a.m. on 14/9.