Beyond bib and race-kit collection, runners visiting the VnExpress Marathon Grand Tour Nghe An 2026 expo on the afternoon of 25/9 and throughout 26/9 will find an activity and relaxation area at the gamezone. This area, supported by Herbalife, features four challenges previously seen at other VnExpress Marathon events.
The games include Gold Ball Sifting, Pickleball Challenge, Dexterity, and Quick Hands, Quick Eyes. Each challenge requires a different skill, from motor control and hand-eye coordination to reflexes and focus.
In Gold Ball Sifting, players guide balls across a table to place them in specific positions. This seemingly simple game demands precise force control and dexterity, as the balls can change direction with every movement.
The Pickleball Challenge introduces one of the fastest-growing sports into the expo space. Instead of a full match, players complete tasks with a paddle and ball in a small area, testing their ball control.
The remaining two games primarily focus on reflexes and accuracy. The Dexterity challenge requires players to guide a loop along a wire without touching obstacles. Quick Hands, Quick Eyes demands quick observation and reaction within a short timeframe.
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A runner participates in the Gold Ball Sifting challenge at the Vung Tau gamezone. Photo: VnExpress Marathon |
The gamezone is designed with moderate difficulty, not emphasizing athletic achievement. Thus, family and friends accompanying runners can also participate. This activity extends the expo experience beyond just collecting items and leaving.
At the VnExpress Vung Tau International Half Marathon Herbalife Cup 2026 in late August, four similar games drew many runners during the two expo days. Participants found the challenges accessible but still requiring focus. The game area also became a place for running groups to socialize and take photos while waiting for race-kits.
To participate in previous stages, runners checked in at the gamezone, scanned a QR code, and entered information to receive a personal code. Staff recorded results on a system after each challenge. Those who completed the required number of challenges had a chance to receive prizes.
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A runner tries the Pickleball game at the gamezone. Photo: VnExpress Marathon |
The gamezone is a side activity introduced to the VnExpress Marathon system this year, with Herbalife's partnership. Before Nghe An, the model appeared at events in Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Vung Tau, providing an additional activity space for runners and families before race day.
In Nghe An, the gamezone is located within the expo area at Nha Van hoa Lao dong Nghe An, number 6 Le Mao. The race-kit distribution area opens from 13h on 25/9 and continues throughout 26/9, before the races begin on the morning of 27/9.
The VnExpress Marathon Grand Tour Nghe An 2026 gathers 7,000 athletes across four distances: 5, 10, 21, and 42 km. All races start at Ho Chi Minh Square. The 42 km race begins earliest at 3h, followed by 21 km at 4h, and 10 km and 5 km at 5h and 6h respectively.
This is the first stage of the Grand Tour model within the VnExpress Marathon system, aiming to combine competition with destination experiences. Beyond the race route connecting Vinh city center with the Cua Lo beach area, expo activities offer additional experiences for runners and their families in the days leading up to the race.
Thy An
