On the morning of 11/10, the VPBank Dat Sen Hong Music Marathon 2026 kicked off in Cao Lanh ward, Dong Thap province. The event featured four distances: 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, and 42 km. This 5th season offered courses certified by the International Marathon Association (AIMS).

From early morning, the starting area buzzed with numerous athletes warming up, preparing to compete. Music, enthusiastic cheers from locals, and misting stations created a vibrant atmosphere along the race route.

The race attracted over 15,000 athletes. *Photo: Organizers*

The courses led runners through significant cultural and historical landmarks of Dong Thap. These included Buu Lam Pagoda, Kim Ngang Pagoda, the Monument to the 1954 Assembly Event, and Cao Lanh Bridge, alongside scenic views of the Tien River and Dinh Trung River.

In the 42 km distance, Truong Van Tam finished first in the men's category with a time of 2 hours 39 minutes 34 seconds. Le Thi Phuong led the women's category with 3 hours 2 minutes 51 seconds. For the 21 km distance, Hoang Nguyen Thanh won the men's category with 1 hour 10 minutes 22 seconds, while Doan Thu Hang finished first in the women's category after 1 hour 23 minutes 26 seconds.

In the 10 km distance, Pham Ngoc Phan and Pham Thi Thuy Hanh respectively led the men's and women's categories. Nguyen Van Khang and Le Thi Kim Chi claimed victory in the 5 km distance. The total prize value for the season was 352 million VND. The costume category also added vibrancy to the event.

According to Thanh Chung, who completed the 42 km distance, the enthusiastic support from locals and well-prepared aid stations provided athletes with extra motivation to reach the finish line. He mentioned that running through the routes also offered an opportunity to enjoy the scenery and experience local life.

The race course crossing Cao Lanh Bridge. *Photo: Organizers*

Athletes interacting with locals along the race course. *Photo: Organizers*

Music energizes the race course. *Photo: Organizers*

Beyond the competition, a series of activities from 9/10 to 11/10 included an Expo area, experiences at the Prosperity Station, and a music program. On the evening of 10/10, the VPBank Music Night featured Phuong My Chi, JSOL, Orange, and Tieu Minh Phung.

A representative of the organizing committee stated that over 5 seasons, the VPBank Dat Sen Hong Music Marathon has gradually become an annual gathering point for the running community. Beyond focusing on scale and professional quality, the event aims to create a unique experience, connecting sports with music, culture, and tourism.

Through its unique series of experiential activities, the organizers hope the event will continue to expand its value beyond the race. This initiative aims to bring the image of Dong Thap closer to tourists, strengthen connections with the service ecosystem, and contribute to growth in local tourism, consumption, and economy.

Ngoc Tai