The 2025 Kun Marathon in Can Tho took place on the morning of 13/9 at Song Hau Park, with 2,000 children aged 6 to 10 participating. Including parents, over 3,000 people attended the event, creating a vibrant atmosphere along the nearly 1 km course beside the Hau River.

Not focused on achievement or competition, the Kun Marathon is a fun exercise experience. The professionally organized event featured a clear start and finish line, photo areas, and exciting sideline activities.

Huong Giang's family participated in the race. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Many parents shared that this was a rare opportunity for their families to put aside work, keep children away from electronic devices, and participate in healthy outdoor activities, creating genuine connection.

Vo Huong Giang, who lives and works in Can Tho, said she has participated in the Kun Marathon several times with her twin second-graders in Nha Trang and Hue. Each time, the family prepares special costumes for the children, such as navy, Au Lac, and astronaut outfits.

At the Nha Trang race in late August, her daughter fell and broke her arm but still insisted on participating this time, partly because the event was held in her hometown.

"I was worried about her running with a broken arm, afraid she would bump into other children and affect her recovery. But she was so eager, and the organizers were very supportive, so I felt reassured. Before the race, I told her to be observant and avoid jostling", Giang said.

Giang's daughter persevered to complete the race despite her broken arm. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

According to Giang, the Kun Marathon is a meaningful activity because it helps children exercise, reduce screen time, interact with friends, and develop exercise habits from a young age. This event has become a regular family activity as she and her husband also participate in the adult race.

Usually, if they can find someone to watch the children, Giang and her husband run the 21km race; otherwise, they opt for a shorter distance. When they learned that the VnExpress Marathon was coming to Can Tho for the first time, her husband registered for the 42km race, while she ran the 21km.

Giang also shared some advice for parents bringing their children to the Kun Marathon for the first time: ensure children get enough sleep, eat well before the race day, and wear comfortable clothing. It's crucial to follow official information from the organizers, avoid fake pages, and remember that the Kun Marathon is free.

Giang carefully saves photos and videos from each race to mark her children's growth. She believes the Kun Marathon's timing right after the start of the school year is ideal because elementary students have a lighter schedule, and it's a great way to energize them for the new academic year.

Sharing the same view, Xuan Quynh, who works at Mobifone Can Tho, brought her first-grade daughter to the Kun Marathon. She found the program fun, age-appropriate, and a healthy activity to start the school year. Before registering, she asked her daughter, who enthusiastically agreed. The family attended together, cheering and capturing the moments.

Children receive medals after finishing the race. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Participating for the first time with her husband and second-grade son Nhat Minh, Ut, an office worker in Can Tho, said the event was filled with emotion. "Since learning about the registration, he has been very excited. He woke up early this morning to prepare and had a lot of fun running with his friends", she said. In addition to the Kun Marathon, the family also participated in the 5km race within the VnExpress Marathon Can Tho. For her, it's a way to improve their health and strengthen family bonds.

The Kun Marathon not only provides opportunities for children to improve their physical fitness and boost confidence but also helps parents accompany and understand their children better. Alongside the race, the event featured various sideline activities like Kun thach truot, interactive minigames, and movement games like "Strong Race," "Super Kun Hands," and "Super Memory," attracting many families.

Hoang Dan

The Kun Marathon is a children's race within the VnExpress Marathon system, previously held in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Ha Long, Da Nang, and Hai Phong. Each season attracts thousands of children and is expected to become a playground for promoting physical activity and nurturing a sporting spirit among the younger generation.

The VM Can Tho is the first VnExpress Marathon event in the Mekong Delta region, after 7 years of building the brand in major cities of central and northern Vietnam. Race kits were distributed on 12-13/9. The first race – the 42 km – will start at 2:30 am on 14/9.