Contributing nearly 100 km in less than a month to the NAB Vietnam virtual race, Trang Ngo, a data analyst at NAB Innovation Centre Vietnam, doesn't consider it his most memorable achievement. For him, the greater value lies in maintaining a healthy habit, enhancing work efficiency, and contributing to the community.
Over the past weeks, thanks to the race on the vRace platform, Trang and many colleagues have maintained a more regular exercise routine. This is not just a physical change, but also a habit adjustment – a challenge for many tech engineers who spend most of their time in front of screens and under tight deadlines.
"Don't give up, believe in the process, slow but reach the finish line," are the three principles Trang uses to describe himself on the running track.
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Runner Trang Ngo (second from left) running with colleagues. *Photo: Courtesy of NAB Vietnam* |
Growing up in Nha Trang, he has been involved in sports since childhood. A running watch gifted by a friend four years ago became the catalyst for his journey in endurance sports, including marathons, Ironman 70.3, and now the NAB Vietnam virtual race.
Describing his work, Trang explains he often "engages with data" to analyze and resolve issues, ultimately enhancing customer service.
Trang believes running and work share many similarities.
"There will be difficult moments when progress seems impossible. However, by persisting and not giving up, results will follow. This principle applies equally to both work and the running track," he shared.
Trang's experience is not isolated within the NAB Vietnam virtual race. Since its launch over a month ago, the event has drawn more than 10,000 participants from Vietnam and abroad, accumulating nearly 250,000 km. Numerous tech engineers, data specialists, and office professionals are embracing the race as a chance to foster active lifestyles, connect with colleagues, and contribute to the community.
Beyond promoting health, the NAB Vietnam virtual race also serves a broader community objective.
A representative from NAB Innovation Centre Vietnam stated that beyond encouraging healthy lifestyles, the program aims to generate social impact. Based on the 250,000 km recorded, NAB Vietnam will donate 1 billion VND to its corporate social responsibility (CSR) fund. This fund will support innovative initiatives within the information technology sector and create opportunities for disadvantaged students to pursue tech careers.
Minh Le, 34, shared that he rarely ran previously. However, after colleagues introduced him to the NAB Vietnam virtual race and its focus on community contribution, he started to change his habits.
"Initially, I ran for 30 minutes, gradually increasing to one hour, then one and a half hours. After more than a month, running after work became a routine," he stated.
Minh emphasized that the race's value extends beyond physical training, fostering a space for connection. In the demanding tech environment, marked by tight deadlines and high professional requirements, running alongside colleagues provides a crucial opportunity to rebalance daily life.
Trang appreciates NAB Vietnam's flexible work environment, which grants him autonomy in both his professional tasks and training schedule. "Sports enhance my positivity and readiness to work more effectively," Trang remarked. "Furthermore, I'm genuinely happy knowing that every kilometer I run contributes to NAB Vietnam's CSR fund."
Linh Lam
