Around 4 a.m., as the first 42km runners approached a dimly lit area around the 30km mark, dozens of Xanh SM electric vehicles illuminated the path. This particular stretch lacked overhead lighting, making the electric vehicles a crucial safety measure for the runners.

From above, the beams from the Xanh SM vehicles created a bright streak along the course. This eco-friendly solution, using zero-emission electric vehicles, didn't disrupt the runners' experience.

Japanese runner Kento Kabashima is seen passing the Le Phuoc Tho section. He finished second overall, behind fellow countryman Masaki Kusumoto, with a time of 2 hours 42 minutes and 19 seconds.

After leaving Le Phuoc Tho at the 30km mark, the 42km runners turned left at the roundabout towards Vo Van Kiet street, where the city's regular lighting resumed.

A turning point on the 21km course. Since runners traversed this section in both directions, electric vehicles lined both sides of the road, their low beams preventing direct glare into the runners' eyes.

An aerial view of the illuminated 21km course. With a 3:30 a.m. start time, runners encountered the unlit sections in the early kilometers while it was still dark, necessitating support from the organizers.

Another view of the 21km runners passing through the An Binh urban area. This electric vehicle lighting strategy, previously employed at the VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight event to positive feedback, offers a solution for areas with underdeveloped infrastructure. It enhances runner safety by illuminating uneven terrain and potential hazards, reducing the risk of injury.

The majority of the VnExpress Marathon Can Tho 2025 course offered 9,000 runners ample space and lighting. The event featured four distances: 42km, 21km, 10km, and 5km.

Runners along the Hau river. The VnExpress Marathon Can Tho was a memorable experience, poised to become an annual sporting event for the city, boosting sports tourism.

Thousands of runners gathered at Song Hau park, the start and finish line of the race. The spacious and airy park provided an ideal setting for warm-ups and post-race relaxation. Photo: Huy Phong

Hoai Phuong