The VnExpress Marathon Da Nang 2025 kicks off on 18/7 at 8 a.m. at Tien Son Sports Palace with race-kit distribution for young athletes participating in the Kun Marathon. This will continue until 6 p.m. the same day. The race for 2,000 children aged 6-10 will start at 6 a.m. on 19/7.

The press conference will take place on the morning of 18/7 at the Muong Thanh Luxury Da Nang Hotel. On the same day, the expo area at Bien Dong Park will open at 1 p.m., distributing race kits to over 11,000 runners. The expo will also feature various sports and recovery product booths. Race-kit distribution continues until 6 p.m. on 19/7. After this time, runners who have not collected their bibs will be ineligible to compete.

Crowds of athletes collect their race kits at VM Quy Nhon in June. Photo: VM

Crowds of athletes collect their race kits at VM Quy Nhon in June. Photo: VM

On race day, 20/7, bag drop for all distances opens at 12:30 a.m. The 42 km race starts at 2:30 a.m., with cut-off times (COT) at km 12 (4:30 a.m.), km 20 (5:30 a.m.), km 32.7 (7:30 a.m.), and km 38.6 (8:20 a.m.). The course closes at 9 a.m.

The 21 km race begins at 3:30 a.m., with two COTs at km 8.5 (4:55 a.m.) and km 16.6 (6:20 a.m.). The course closes at 7 a.m. The 5 km and 10 km races start at 5 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., respectively, and finish before 7:30 a.m.

The awards ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. on 20/7 at the Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel. Winning athletes must bring their ID cards for verification after finishing.

Nutrition is a key factor in race preparation. In the 1-2 days leading up to the race, runners should prioritize carbohydrate-rich foods such as rice, noodles, and sweet potatoes; limit fried foods and those difficult to digest; and absolutely avoid alcohol.

This period is crucial for glycogen loading, the primary energy source for long-distance running. On race day, especially for the 21 km and 42 km distances, bring energy gels, mineral salts, or electrolyte tablets to maintain stamina. These can be purchased at the Long Chau booth or other sponsor booths in the expo area.

Runners purchase gels and salts at the expo. Photo: VM

Runners purchase gels and salts at the expo. Photo: VM

Post-race recovery should include water, electrolyte drinks, fruit, or a light meal rich in easily digestible carbohydrates and protein. The organizers will provide cold towels, water, electrolytes, and some food immediately after the finish line for runners to replenish their energy.

The main event locations are within a 3-5 km radius, convenient for runners staying in the city center. Transportation options include taxis, ride-hailing services, public buses, or walking if staying near Tien Son Sports Palace.

To support participants, Grab, the transportation sponsor, is offering two promotional codes: one for a 50% discount (up to 100,000 VND) and another for a 25% discount (up to 50,000 VND), applicable for the first 10,000 users. Code details will be sent to the email address registered with the organizers.

Carefully select attire suitable for Da Nang's hot and humid July weather. Running shirts should be made of breathable, light-colored, and moisture-wicking material. Lightweight shorts with inner lining and small pockets will enhance comfort throughout the race. Avoid wearing new shoes that haven't been broken in to prevent blisters or foot pain.

Runners may also want to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, kinesiology tape, or a heart rate monitor sports watch. Pack a dry set of clothes, a towel, hand sanitizer, and a small bag for use after the race.

Runners are advised not to bring valuables to prevent loss or theft. The finish area is expected to be crowded on the morning of 20/7. Do not keep phones in back pockets to avoid pickpocketing.

Apparel and accessories are also available at the expo. Photo: VM

Apparel and accessories are also available at the expo. Photo: VM

Before race day, ensure adequate sleep, limit strenuous activity, and arrive at the starting point at least 30 minutes early for bag drop, warm-up, and equipment check.

To support athletes before and after the race in Da Nang's summer conditions, the organizers, in collaboration with Tiger Balm, have set up an experience zone at the expo. Here, runners can warm up, stretch, and relax with professional massage therapists. The booth will also host interactive activities such as mini-games, photo opportunities, and giveaways, with the message "Warm comfort - enduring companionship".

Being well-prepared in terms of schedule, attire, nutrition, and transportation will allow athletes to approach the race with confidence.

Lan Anh

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