More than 2,000 children participated in the Kun Marathon in Can Tho on the morning of 13/9, with the enthusiastic support and participation of many parents. For many families, this was not only the first time they brought their children to a major sporting event, but also a special opportunity for the whole family to bond and prepare for the new school year.

The energetic and exciting race saw some families encounter issues such as loose shoes, inappropriate clothing, or children lacking mental preparation. Parents should keep these things in mind to help their children have a more fulfilling experience at future Kun Marathons.

Children start the race amidst cheers from their parents. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Many children experienced difficulties with new shoes, causing discomfort, foot pain, or the shoes coming off mid-race. Some children had to carry their shoes while running to the finish line, cheered on by spectators. Other children wore clothes that were too tight or made of non-stretchy material, restricting their movement.

Parents are advised to have their children try out their shoes beforehand, prioritizing lightweight, grippy shoes that fit well. Clothing should be made of soft, sweat-wicking, and stretchy material to allow children to move comfortably. Artist Truong Giang, a frequent Kun Marathon participant, emphasized, "With just a little more attention to preparation, children will have a more complete sporting experience,".

For preschool and elementary school children, participating in a crowded race can sometimes cause anxiety. In Can Tho, many children were hesitant during the warm-up but gradually gained confidence thanks to the encouragement and support of their parents.

According to many families, talking and practicing light exercises with their children at home before race day is an effective way to get them used to physical activity. When cheered on and encouraged, children can easily integrate, turning the race into a fun experience rather than a pressure-filled one.

Vo Huong Giang, a parent of two participants, said that diet and sleep before race day play an important role. "Children should only eat light meals, avoid unfamiliar foods, and maintain a stable digestive system. Most importantly, they need enough sleep for a flexible body and an enthusiastic spirit on race day," she said.

This is also the recommendation of many nutritionists when children participate in outdoor activities. Overeating or trying new foods can easily cause discomfort, affecting children's performance and health.

A Kun runner whose shoe came off perseveres to the finish line. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

The Kun Marathon is free to enter, and parents can register through the organizers' official website. However, some first-time parents felt confused when filling out information, receiving race kits, or arranging travel schedules.

To avoid mistakes, parents should follow official announcements, pick up race kits early, and actively seek direct support from the organizers at the expo. This not only saves time but also prevents children from feeling stressed before the race.

The Kun Marathon is not just a sports playground for children; it also creates opportunities for family bonding. Images of parents running with their children and cheering them on from the sidelines created many heartwarming moments in Can Tho. This is also the message the organizers want to spread: encouraging parents to accompany their children on their health journey.

The Kun Marathon is currently a children's race within the VnExpress Marathon system, having been held in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Da Nang, Ha Long, and Hai Phong. In 2025, Can Tho is the system's first destination in the Mekong Delta, attracting the attention of many parents and students in the region.

Hoang Dan

The Kun Marathon, a children's race within the VnExpress Marathon system, has been 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 for the younger generation.

The Can Tho VnExpress Marathon is the first race of the VnExpress Marathon system in the Mekong Delta region, after seven years of building the brand in major cities of central and northern Vietnam. The race kit distribution took place on 12-13/9. The first distance - 42 km - will start at 2:30 a.m. on 14/9.