For over a month, the Da Nang Runners (DNR) have been training more intensely than usual, with thousands of members dividing into smaller groups to build endurance for distances from 5 km to 42 km. This large contingent makes them one of the host groups with the highest number of registered runners in the VnExpress Marathon system.

DNR members regularly organize runs with runners from all over. Photo: Da Nang Runners

DNR members regularly organize runs with runners from all over. Photo: Da Nang Runners

Thanh Vy, the club's president, said many members registered during the Super Early Bird phase, taking advantage of group discounts. Now, 20 days before the race, the number has reached a record 2,000, spread across all distances from 5 km to 42 km.

"The significant increase in participants compared to last year reflects the growth of running in Da Nang and the appeal of running on home turf," Vy commented.

Founded in 2014, Da Nang Runners now has over 16,000 members of all ages. The club maintains three runs per week, consistently attracting hundreds of participants. In 2024, the group organized several internal races such as the Da Nang Ultra Road, Breaking Half Marathon, and an Ekiden race to celebrate their 10th anniversary. Besides professional activities, the club actively contributes to the community through charitable programs and provides staff support for many major races in central Vietnam.

Vy said that as the race approaches, the club's expert committee has slightly adjusted the volume, content, and timing of training sessions to better prepare runners for the summer weather. This is one of the benefits of joining a running club, especially helpful for newcomers.

"We want to project an image of a dynamic, hospitable, and friendly Da Nang running community more than we focus on outstanding individual achievements," Vy shared.

Thanh Vy - President of Da Nang Runners Club. Photo: Provided by the subject

Thanh Vy - President of Da Nang Runners Club. Photo: Provided by the subject

In addition to members focused on health and community building, the club has elite runners aiming to compete, mostly veterans from the city's early running movement. This group maintains a high training intensity, regularly participates in races, and creates their own training plans to peak on race day.

Beyond the competitive team, a group of Da Nang Runners members will support the race as pacers for the half marathon and full marathon. With their experience and knowledge of the terrain, they are expected to guide athletes to achieve their personal goals.

To assist runners from other provinces, the club organizes connecting activities such as sharing racing experience, recommending accommodation and dining options, and providing travel guidance. "Just contact us through social media, and we will provide comprehensive support for everyone to have the smoothest and most memorable experience," Vy said.

Da Nang Runners also plans to organize a pre-race welcome run, combined with social activities among running communities nationwide. "The VnExpress Marathon is not just a race, but also an opportunity for us to demonstrate the hospitality of the people in the 'most livable city'," a club representative shared.

Lan Anh

VnExpress Marathon Da Nang 2025 will take place on the morning of 20/7, with a route passing through many iconic tourist spots such as the Dragon Bridge, Thuan Phuoc Bridge, the Han River, and the Vo Nguyen Giap coastal route. This year, the finish line for the 42 km race has been moved to Bien Dong Park to expand the cheering area and enhance the athlete experience.

The race is currently selling tickets in the Late phase until 3/7, with prices ranging from 850,000 to 1,550,000 VND depending on the distance. Readers can find more information about the tournament here.

VM Da Nang changes the 42km finish line, starts at 2:30 (a.m.)

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