On the afternoon of 23/8, at the VnExpress Marathon Libera Nha Trang expo, composer Pham Toan Thang arrived with a friend to collect his race kit. The creator of popular songs like "Co be mua dong," "Bon chu lam," and "Dau mua" expressed his excitement about participating in his first marathon in the coastal city. From a composer's perspective, Thang shared that preparing for the race was as thrilling as composing a new melody, finding a connection between sports and music.

Pham Toan Thang checks in with the 10km route map of VM Nha Trang 2025. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

"I decided to join VnExpress Marathon Nha Trang after hearing positive reviews from friends. They said it's one of the most scenic marathon routes in Vietnam. The idea of running along the coast, breathing in the fresh air, was truly appealing," he enthusiastically shared.

However, an unforeseen incident changed his plans. Two weeks ago, Thang suffered a sprained ankle while playing sports. "My ankle hasn't fully healed, so although I'm disappointed, I had to switch to the 10km distance for safety," he explained. Despite this, the composer remained optimistic, viewing it as an opportunity to enjoy the atmosphere of the sporting event.

Pham Toan Thang running with Ai Phuong. Photo: Provided by the individual

Pham Toan Thang started running in 2022, after being invited by singer Phan Le Ai Phuong to join training sessions with a group of friends. With a naturally high heart rate, he finds it challenging to match the pace of other runners, so he opts for a sustainable training approach, maintaining a safe zone 2 pace. He dedicates about three training sessions per week at the Sala area in TP HCM, known as a "runner's paradise." This routine has improved his health, maintained mental clarity, and stabilized his songwriting rhythm, especially after turning 30 – a stage when the body can easily decline without exercise.

Through various races, from trail running in Da Lat and Sa Pa to the half marathon at VnExpress Marathon Hue 2023, the composer has discovered parallels between sports and music. "For me, daring to start a run is like daring to write the first notes of a song. Both require courage to overcome inertia and begin the journey," he said. For Thang, trail running provides the excitement of traversing forests and climbing mountains, while road running tests endurance limits, enriching his creative experiences.

The composer checks in with the national flag backdrop of VM Nha Trang 2025. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

This year's VnExpress Marathon Libera Nha Trang, taking place near National Day (2/9), holds special significance for Pham Toan Thang. Born into a family with a father who served in the army and a mother who worked in the police force, he deeply appreciates national pride.

He believes that nearly 13,000 people running together is more than just a sporting event; it symbolizes the spirit of striving, surpassing personal limits, and collectively aiming for better things. "The feeling of being part of such a large crowd is indescribable. It boosts my spirits and adds a touch of healthy competition to encourage progress," he concluded.

Lan Anh