This year's event marks the third time VnExpress Marathon returns to Da Nang, officially named VnExpress Da Nang International Marathon Herbalife Cup 2026. The marathon aims to elevate its standing on the international marathon map.
In addition to professional activities, the organizing committee has set up a gamezone at the Expo, located in Bien Dong Park (Vo Nguyen Giap street, Da Nang city). This is where bib distribution will take place on 17 and 18/7. The space is designed to provide runners and their families a relaxing spot to socialize before race day.
At the gamezone, athletes can participate in four challenges: gold ball sifting, pickleball challenge, dexterity, and quick hands and eyes. The games are simple, easy to join, and suitable for various age groups, offering light exercise, entertainment, and photo opportunities while participants collect their race kits.
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Herbalife partners with the gamezone at VM Can Tho 2026. Photo: VM
Herbalife, a global nutrition brand specializing in health, sports, and active lifestyles, partners with the gamezone. To participate, athletes check in at the gamezone, 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 in the system.
Those who complete any two games will qualify for one gift, chosen from the program's offerings. Athletes who conquer all four challenges will receive two gifts. According to the organizing committee, the electronic confirmation method optimizes operational procedures and facilitates managing participation and gift distribution.
Gifts for participants include sun protection gloves and other useful items to support athletes during the competition.
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Runners experience and check in at the Herbalife booth at VM Can Tho 2026. Photo: VM
This gamezone partnership is part of Herbalife's ongoing activities at the VnExpress Marathon series, aiming to promote an active lifestyle through community engagement. The experience area also creates an additional touchpoint for the brand to connect with the running community, alongside consultation and interaction activities during the two bib collection days.
VnExpress Marathon Da Nang is a major summer race, eagerly anticipated by the running community. The organizing committee reports that this year's event has attracted 13,000 athletes registered to compete in the 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km distances. The race route guides runners through coastal roads, central areas, and iconic Da Nang landmarks. A highlight of the marathon distance is the journey to catch the sunrise along Vo Nguyen Giap coastal road, crossing symbolic bridges such as Dragon Bridge, Thuan Phuoc Bridge, and Tran Thi Ly Bridge.
Combined with the Kun Marathon, taking place on 18/7, and a series of side activities, the event promises a vibrant sports festival atmosphere, contributing to making Da Nang a summer destination for families and the running community.
Minh Ngoc
