In the summer of 2023, Cam Le, a member of the Hai Chau Runners club, initiated the Da Nang Kid Run movement with a simple question: "Why do adults have running clubs, but children don't?"
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A girl smiles during a running session with her peers. Photo: Hai Chau Runners |
A girl smiles during a running session with her peers. Photo: Hai Chau Runners
With no fanfare or major sponsorships, Kid Run began with free practice sessions at the 2/9 Monument Square. Over time, the event became a familiar gathering spot for children every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon.
"Children have summer vacation but lack outdoor playgrounds, so I wanted to create a healthy exercise space for them," Le said.
Children aged 5 to 10 are the main participants. Each session attracts 30-50 children and lasts from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The children are taught basic techniques, participate in games, and receive gifts after each session. "Some children were initially shy and afraid to leave their parents, but after a few sessions, they happily ran with their friends, eager to go out every afternoon," Le recounted.
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Parents and children check in with the Hai Chau Runners club flag. Photo: Hai Chau Runners |
Parents and children check in with the Hai Chau Runners club flag. Photo: Hai Chau Runners
The program operates on a non-profit basis. Parents voluntarily contribute an average of 50,000-100,000 VND to support drinks, snacks, and prizes. At the end of the summer, parents often organize a small race, with 2km and 5km distances, awarding medals to the finishers.
"I hope the children will exercise outdoors more, be less dependent on phone screens, and have more time with their parents," Le shared. "Many parents who were initially hesitant to run now also practice running to become instructors for their children."
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Gia Khanh finished 3rd at the 2024 Da Nang Kun Marathon. Photo: Provided by the subject |
Gia Khanh finished 3rd at the 2024 Da Nang Kun Marathon. Photo: Provided by the subject
Among the group, Gia Khanh, born in 2014, is well-known among parents. From the habit of walking with his father, Khanh began to enjoy running and has participated in various races. He completed the 5km distance at the VnExpress Marathon Hue, Quy Nhon, Nha Trang, and won third place in the 2024 Da Nang Kun Marathon. "I don't know why, but every time I run, I feel very happy. It's like I'm missing something important if I don't run that day," Khanh said.
On 19/7, young runners in Da Nang will have the opportunity to participate in the Kun Marathon - a free race for children aged 6 to 10 with a scale of up to 2,000 young athletes. After awarding 1,000 registration slots through a minigame, the race will open registration on 15/7 for the remaining 1,000 slots.
Hai Long
