The VnExpress Marathon Hai Phong 2025, held on 21/12, drew approximately 14,000 runners, with over 5,000 registered for the 42km distance. This significant turnout, particularly for the full marathon, became a memorable highlight for international participants.

Emmanuel Otiji, 32, a Nigerian living in TP HCM for about 7 years, traveled to Hai Phong specifically for the event and planned to fly back immediately after the race. He was astonished by the number of runners tackling the full marathon.

Emmanuel Otiji celebrates a new personal record of 3 hours 29 minutes. Photo: Hai Long

"I did not think there would be 5,000 people running 42km. The atmosphere was explosive, we cheered each other on constantly, it felt like a gathering of the running community", Emmanuel said. He noted that this supportive spirit helped him maintain a consistent pace throughout the race. Impressed by the volunteers who provided water and encouragement at crucial moments, Emmanuel achieved a new personal record of 3 hours 29 minutes, improving his previous best by over 14 minutes.

Jean Matthieu Beroujon, 47, from France, shared a similar sentiment. He joined the VnExpress Marathon Hai Phong after missing the Hanoi Midnight race in late november. Jean completed the race with a personal best of 3 hours 44 minutes 58 seconds, but what he remembered most was the moment at the starting line, seeing thousands of runners heading towards the finish.

Jean Matthieu Beroujon strides along the 42km course at VnExpress Marathon Hai Phong 2025. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

"Thousands of people poured towards the finish line like a big train", Jean described. Accustomed to running alone, he remarked that only in Hai Phong did he truly feel a strong sense of community. "I warmed up with everyone to music at the starting line, then congratulated each other after receiving medals. Many runners saw I was a foreigner and asked to take photos. This experience is very different from my solo training sessions", he added.

Noel Bizeul, 62, also from France, considered the 42km distance a fitting choice for his long journey from Europe to Vietnam. Although he did not set a personal record, Noel expressed his enjoyment of the Port City's rhythm of life and the friendliness of its local residents.

Noel Bizeul waves to the camera at VnExpress Marathon Hai Phong 2025. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

"Throughout the 42km, many runners I met waved, shouted 'Hello' and gave a thumbs up to encourage me. I have lived here for 5 months and have no intention of moving to another city", Noel stated. The VnExpress Marathon Hai Phong 2025 marked the final leg of the VnExpress Marathon series for 2025.

Hai Long