Runners preparing for the VnExpress Marathon All-Star on 8/2 in Hoa Lac should brace for challenging weather. According to AccuWeather data, the area will be affected by a strengthening cold front and monsoon winds on race day. Actual temperatures are forecast to range from 12-16 degrees C. Critically, at the 5h - 5h30 start time, the combination of rain and strong winds, potentially reaching 39 km/h, is expected to drive the perceived temperature down significantly to 9-13 degrees C.

Given these specific race conditions, runners need to prepare warm and waterproof attire. Medical experts advise wearing a windbreaker during warm-up and for the initial kilometers of the race. Gloves, arm sleeves, and a cap are essential items to shield against wind and rain. Runners can purchase these items at the Velosar sponsor booth, located in the expo area at The LinC shopping center in ParkCity Ha Noi urban area.

Runner checks in at the expo, located at The LinC shopping center, ParkCity Ha Noi urban area. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

High humidity, exceeding 80%, will prevent sweat and rain from evaporating quickly, causing clothes to become saturated, heavy, and potentially lead to chafing. Athletes should opt for compression gear made from quick-drying synthetic materials. Applying vaseline and warming oil thoroughly to sensitive areas and feet can help prevent blisters.

In cold weather, muscles are prone to stiffness. Runners must allocate more time for a thorough warm-up before reaching the starting line. Regarding race strategy, although the Hoa Lac course is flat with few turns, strong winds present a significant obstacle. Runners should avoid "racing pace" from the very first kilometer while their bodies are still warming up. It is advisable to utilize the lower heart rate caused by the cold to maintain endurance, draft behind other runners when possible, and only unleash full effort in the latter half of the race. When running against the wind, patience and energy conservation are key. Conversely, when running with the wind, runners can leverage its force to increase their pace beyond normal.

Nguyen Manh Hung, 68 years old, from Ha Noi, participates in the VnExpress Marathon All-Star for the first time. Photo: VM

Nguyen Manh Hung, a 68-year-old runner from Ha Noi, emphasizes that listening to one's body is the most crucial factor for adjusting tactics and avoiding overexertion. "The weather on race day is forecast to be quite harsh, with cold temperatures and rain. For older runners, health must remain the top priority", he stressed.

Cold weather often diminishes the sensation of thirst, yet the body still loses water through respiration and sweat. Runners must adhere strictly to their hydration and electrolyte intake plan at aid stations, not waiting until they feel thirsty to drink, to prevent unexpected energy depletion.

The organizers have arranged bus transportation for athletes to the starting line at 2h30 on 8/2 from two pickup points. Pickup point one is at Cong vien Thong Nhat (Tran Nhan Tong gate, Ha Noi). Pickup point two is at ParkCity Ha Noi urban area (Le Trong Tan street, Ha Dong).

Given that travel to Hoa Lac takes approximately 45-60 minutes, and additional time is needed for baggage drop-off and warm-up, athletes must arrive punctually. After crossing the finish line, buses will transport athletes back to the starting points between 8h00 and 11h00. Athletes can contact the race's fanpage for any assistance needed.

The VnExpress Marathon All-Star 2026 brings together 1,500 elite runners. The 42 km course is designed as two 21 km loops, starting and finishing at the Trung tam Doi moi sang tao Quoc gia (NIC). This is Vietnam's first and only marathon with entry standards, attracting top runners.

Minh Ngoc