From 6 a.m., the starting area was a riot of color with Kun uniforms, music, group warm-up exercises, and resounding cheers from parents. The atmosphere was further amplified by the presence of football star Hong Son, football freestylers Do Kim Phuc and Minh Nhat, TikTokers Yen Noi Com Dien and Mike Den, and singer Candy Ngoc Ha.

Young runners warm up before the start. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Young runners warm up before the start. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

The young runners were divided into five groups based on age, ranging from 6 to 10. From 7:15 a.m., each group set off to conquer the nearly 1 km course with three challenges: "Stone Cave," "Stone Maze," and "Colorful Underground Milk Stream." Laughter and excitement were evident on the children's faces as they overcame the obstacles and received their finish-line medals.

Along the way, encouraging words like "Go Chip!" and "Almost there, Bi!" spurred the children on. Besides cheering, many parents used their phones to capture their children’s first community event. Many of these parents are also runners, wanting to set an example for their kids.

A group of children cross the "Colorful Underground Milk Stream" challenge. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

A group of children cross the "Colorful Underground Milk Stream" challenge. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

In addition to the race, the organizers set up several gift booths and check-in areas. These areas attracted the attention of many parents and children. While one age group was competing, those who had finished could play in these areas while waiting for their siblings.

Nguyen Hoang Tuan (Dak Mil Runners Club, Lam Dong) shared, "Our group has 30 members, both adults and children. Kun Marathon is a great playground that helps children get active, instead of being glued to computers or phones."

Vu Thi Van and her three sons also arrived early. After giving her children breakfast, she entrusted each of them to the organizers to line up according to their age group. "My three children regularly drink Kun milk, so they were really looking forward to this event. This is the second time they have participated in Da Nang," she said.

Dak Mil Runners Club traveled over 600 km to Tien Son Sports Palace to accompany their children in the race. Photo: Duc Dong

Dak Mil Runners Club traveled over 600 km to Tien Son Sports Palace to accompany their children in the race. Photo: Duc Dong

Kun Marathon Da Nang 2025 is the third leg in this year's series, following Hue and Ha Long. To date, 6,000 children have participated in the early stages of the season. Before the race, the organizers gave away 1,000 free bibs through a minigame starting 1/7, and the remaining 1,000 tickets were distributed through registration on 11/7.

The event, co-organized by Kun milk brand within the framework of the VnExpress Marathon series, aims to create a healthy and safe playground for children across the country.

Hai Long