At 6:30 a.m. on 24/8, KDI Holdings employees gathered at 2-4 Square, ready for the 5 km race. Despite many participating in a large-scale marathon for the first time, the atmosphere was enthusiastic and lively. Team members warmed up and encouraged each other before the starting line.

Participating employees represented most of KDI Holdings' departments, including sales, communications and marketing, human resources, corporate culture, operations, and customer service. Many employees challenged themselves with longer distances like 10 km, 21 km, and even the full 42 km marathon, all of which started earlier in the morning.

Hundreds of KDI Holdings employees. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Along the route, internal supporters enthusiastically cheered on their colleagues and captured memorable moments.

Thuy Tien, head of Corporate Culture at KDI Holdings, said this was her first time participating in such a large and professional marathon. "I only registered for the 5 km race, but I was truly impressed by everyone's sportsmanship. Standing at the finish line and seeing colleagues from other distances complete their races with such enthusiasm, I clearly felt the connection that sports can bring," Tien said.

Thuy Tien on the race course. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

After completing the race, although tired, Tien stayed at the post-race area to take photos with her colleagues. She said such activities not only inspire individuals but also enhance team spirit within the company. According to Tien, sports help people become more persistent, resilient, and optimistic in both work and life.

Employees take off from the starting line. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Xuan Giang from the company's communications department said he registered for the 21 km race. "I see this as an opportunity to challenge myself and as a commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It's especially motivating to have many colleagues participating as well," Giang said.

He added that the company's leadership has always supported promoting sports activities among employees. They encourage staff to participate in community events, fostering both physical fitness and camaraderie. The participation of over 150 employees in this marathon is seen as a practical activity to promote sportsmanship and a dynamic, positive lifestyle within the company.

Since the running boom began around 2018, many businesses in Vietnam have chosen running as an effective team-building activity. Through training and competing together, employees have the opportunity to understand, support, and motivate each other, fostering a more positive and connected work environment.

The 2025 VnExpress Marathon Libera Nha Trang attracted significant attention with record participation. This year's event saw 13,000 registered runners, the highest number ever in the VM system. The main event took place at 2-4 Square in Nha Trang, with the course running along Tran Phu Street and the coastline.

KDI Holdings, a co-sponsor, emphasized the event's theme of "feeling free." This is the fourth time Khanh Hoa has hosted the marathon, promoting sports tourism in the region and reinforcing Nha Trang's appeal as a multifaceted destination.

Hoang Dan