The VnExpress Marathon Can Tho expo opened from 1 PM on 12/9 to 6 PM on 13/9, allowing runners to collect their bibs and race kits before the race on the morning of 14/9.

Outside the 3,000 m2 expo area, the organizers displayed race branding. A prominent feature was a 2-meter-tall model of a hollow-key guitar, the design of the race medal.

The guitar represents the Mekong Delta's cultural identity, as it's the main instrument used in Don Ca Tai Tu, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage.

Runner Ngo Van Truong collected his bib in a special outfit printed with a guitar and musical notes. He carried an acoustic guitar and planned to run the 21km race with it to embrace the race spirit. "I pray for no rain so I can have a complete race," he said.

A group of friends who work together in TP HCM arrived in Can Tho at noon on 13/9 and took photos with the guitar model.

Disabled runner Phan Manh Tan, from Tay Ninh, will participate in the 21km race in his wheelchair.

Hoai Phuong and Diep Van from TP HCM are first-time participants in the race, both running the 5km distance.

Details of the VnExpress Marathon Can Tho 2025 medal design, crafted in the shape of a stylized water lily, inspired by the Cai Rang Floating Market boats—a Can Tho tourism icon. The cross-body strap is designed to feel like wearing a real musical instrument. The medal design has been a hit within the running community, hailed as a "work of art".

Inside the expo, organizers and volunteers helped athletes complete the bib collection process quickly. The race attracted 9,000 participants in its first edition, posing operational challenges. However, with experience from organizing 30 large-scale races, the VnExpress Marathon team managed the flow of runners effectively.

The race pacers checked in together before their duties began. They were divided into groups of three, each pacing the 21km and 42km races at different target finish times.

The VnExpress Marathon Can Tho expo also featured vendor booths for runners to shop and play games. Runners could purchase energy gels and electrolyte salts at the Long Chau Pharmacy booth, shoes at the Goya booth, and watches at the Garmin booth.