On the morning of 18/4, the Kun Marathon Hue 2026 unfolded at Ngo Mon Square, drawing 2,500 children aged 6-10 to tackle a challenging 1 km obstacle course. Before the race commenced, the young participants engaged in warm-up exercises and interacted with celebrities Truong Giang, YouTuber Meo Simmy, and Mike Den, setting an energetic tone for the event.

The race course featured a variety of obstacles designed to test the children's agility and endurance. One of the most formidable challenges was the Kun Kun Rocky Mountain, which proved difficult for many children in the 6-7 age group, while older participants relished the climbing. The course also included the Five-Color Swamp, where organizers added numerous plastic balls to an inflatable house, further increasing the difficulty and physical demand on the young athletes.

Throughout the race, participants displayed remarkable spirit. Despite instances of bursts of speed leading to stumbles, lost shoes, or even tears mid-race, all children demonstrated resilience by standing up and completing the course. A poignant moment captured Hoang Ngoc Nhi from Hue, who led her crying younger brother, Hoang Long, to the finish line. Along the sidelines, parents continuously cheered, providing motivation for the two siblings. Nguyen Phuc Nguyen, one of the 7-year-old group champions, expressed his delight at overcoming his limits and eagerly announced his intention to participate in the "Explore All Species" game zone immediately after receiving his medal.

The Kun Marathon Hue 2026 marks an extension of a series of events held across 10 provinces and cities, following its inaugural race in TP HCM. This year, the event expanded its capacity by 500 spots, accommodating 2,500 children. The marathon's theme, "Together with Kun to protect all species", was reinforced through interactive post-finish line games such as "Rescue the Green Forest" and "Clean the Ocean". These activities aimed to educate children about animal habitats, fostering an early awareness of environmental protection.

The weather in Hue on the morning of 18/4 was sunny and humid. Many parents came prepared with handheld fans to help cool down their children. Participants, including a 7-year-old girl in a feminine lace dress, exerted themselves on the course. Ensuring children wore well-fitting athletic shoes and proper sun protection was crucial for their safety while exercising under the sun.

By Thy An

Photos by Duc Dong, VnExpress Marathon