Held for the second time in Can Tho, Kun Marathon continues to demonstrate its appeal. From 8:00, many parents arrived early to complete the race-kit collection procedures for their children. Other families opted to wait until noon to bring their children after school.

The race-kit for the young runners includes a running shirt with their name printed, a race bib, a hat, and various items from sponsors.

The family of Pham Thanh Huong and Tran Nguyet Que traveled from TP HCM the previous evening to Can Tho to prepare for the race. Ms. Que stated that while her family has supported VnExpress Marathon for many years, this marks their first time registering their child for Kun Marathon.

"Our child has loved sports since childhood, so when she learned she could participate in Kun Marathon, she was very excited and eagerly anticipated today to receive the race-kit", Ms. Que shared. According to her, allowing children to join races helps them build physical fitness, maintain an active lifestyle, and relieve stress after school.

Nguyen Minh An of Can Tho stated that Kun Marathon has become a regular event for her family. She believes the race not only provides a healthy environment for play but also creates a memorable experience for children. Her daughter eagerly awaited the race-kit collection day, particularly thrilled to see her name printed on the running shirt and bib.

"This is not merely a race but also an opportunity for children to develop a greater love for physical activity, while also providing families with more bonding time", Ms. Chau shared.

The atmosphere at the item distribution area became more vibrant at noon, as many students were brought by parents immediately after school. Ngo Hoang Nhan, a 5th grade student in Can Tho, arrived directly to collect his race bib after finishing his studies.

Despite being tired after school, the boy could not hide his excitement while holding the race-kit. "I am very excited; I probably won't sleep tonight because I'm just hoping for morning to come so I can run. I aim to win first prize in the 10-year-old group", Hoang Nhan said.

From Dong Thap, Pham Thi Ngoc Ngan and her husband brought their two children, Le Gia Linh and Le Gia Han, to participate in the event. This marks the second time the two children have taken part in Kun Marathon. In the picture, the family poses with the program background featuring the message "Together with Kun, protect all species".

Ms. Ngan stated that her family regularly follows running groups and considers this a suitable activity for children to improve their health. To prepare for the race, she and her husband often train with their children every afternoon. "Since running, the children have become more active and healthy, and their spirits are also more confident and lively", Ms. Ngan shared.

Gia Linh and Gia Han excitedly showed off their race bibs after completing the race-kit collection procedures. The two sisters expressed excitement and determination before the race day. Both stated they want to "run very fast to get a medal".

At the event area, many parents lingered by the message board to write well wishes for their children before the race day. Dang Bao Chau stated that her family views the event as an opportunity for children to exercise, play, and learn to be more confident in a crowded environment. This year, she registered both her children for Kun Marathon.

"The children really look forward to the race; as the day approaches, they keep asking their parents when they can go pick up their shirts and bibs. They even count down the days to meet friends and participate in games at the event", Ms. Chau shared.

The two young runners delighted many at the expo area by wearing adorable chick costumes to collect their bibs.

Many children actively sought out check-in points with the Kun mascot to take photos. The archway, Kun runner name boards, and cartoon models attracted many children and parents.

Many parents showed joy upon receiving race-kits and gifts from the Kun brand. For many families, these gifts serve as encouragement, motivating the children for the race day.

Alongside the main activities, the event also organized many lively side activities, such as: Kun jelly slide, interactive minigames, and active play areas like "Powerful Race Track", "Super Kun Hands", "Super Memory".

Kun Marathon Can Tho will take place at Hau River Park on the morning of 9/5 with over 2,000 children aged 6 to 10 participating. The young runners will conquer a nearly one kilometer long track with many obstacles, such as: a ball pit, inflatable house, climbing wall, and tunnel. The event is expected to become a sports festival for children in the Mekong Delta region.

Minh Ngoc

Photo: VnExpress Marathon