For its debut in Vung Tau, the organizing committee has set up a game zone at the event's expo. Located at Thuy Van Square, opposite Tam Thang tower on Le Hong Phong street, this area will also host bib distribution activities on 28 and 29/8.

The game zone is a new addition to the VnExpress Marathon's sideline activities, starting this year. Herbalife, a global nutrition brand focused on health, sports, and active lifestyles, partners in this initiative. The game zone is designed to offer runners and their families a place to relax and socialize before race day.

Here, runners can participate in challenges including: gold sifting, the pickleball challenge, skill challenge, and quick hands and sharp eyes. These activities are available from 13h-18h on friday (28/8) and 8h-17h on saturday (29/8). To join, participants check in at the game zone, scan a QR code, and fill in information to receive a personal QR code. After completing each game, staff at each booth will scan the QR code to confirm results on the system. Participants who complete at least two of the four challenges will have a chance to receive a neck gaiter, a useful item for runners during the race.

Runner participates in the pickleball challenge at the VnExpress Marathon Da Nang game zone, july. *Photo: BTC*

The activities are designed to be easy to join, suitable for many age groups. They provide light exercise, relaxation, and photo opportunities while collecting bibs and race kits.

At the VnExpress Marathon Da Nang in july, many runners commented that the games had a moderate difficulty, were accessible yet challenging. Many young people felt that adding the game zone to the expo made the race kit collection process more enjoyable. It also created more space for activity, interaction, and relaxation before race day.

In addition to the physical activities, at the game zone at 16h on 29/8, athletes will have the opportunity to meet Lam Bao Chau and Dat Kyo, two famous models and actors.

Runner participates in the quick hands and sharp eyes challenge at the VnExpress Marathon Da Nang game zone, july. *Photo: BTC*

Nguyen Thanh Dat, Senior Communications Director for Herbalife Vietnam, stated that the accompanying activities at the VnExpress Marathon are organized to enhance the runner experience. They also promote an active lifestyle and health awareness in the community.

The VnExpress Vung Tau International Half Marathon Herbalife Cup 2026 is a prominent race during the national holiday. In its inaugural season in Vung Tau, the race features three distances: 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km. The total prize value exceeds 662 million dong, awarded across 52 categories. Of this, 200 million dong is cash, with the remainder being in-kind prizes. The route takes runners through many coastal roads, the city center, and Vung Tau's iconic landmarks.

Combined with the Kun Marathon taking place on 29/8 and the series of sideline activities, the event promises a vibrant sports festival atmosphere. It helps Vung Tau become a family destination for the 2/9 holiday.

Hoang Anh