According to the organizers of the VnExpress Marathon Libera Nha Trang 2025, over 3,800 runners have registered for the 21km race and over 2,600 for the 10km race. These two distances are typically popular in large-scale marathons and usually have staggered start times, about an hour apart. However, at this year’s VnExpress Marathon Libera Nha Trang 2025, nearly 6,500 runners will start simultaneously, promising a vibrant atmosphere for the coastal city on the morning of 24/8.

A large crowd of athletes at the starting line in 2/4 Square at the VM Nha Trang 2023. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Despite starting at the same time, the two groups will use separate starting gates and run in opposite directions along Tran Phu Street, ensuring a clear separation of runners. The 10km runners will head south, while the 21km runners will head north along the Nha Trang coastline.

In previous VnExpress Marathons, the 10km and 5km races typically started close together, about 15 minutes apart. This year, with a significant increase in 5km registrations, including many first-time runners, children, and corporate groups, a separate start time is necessary. The shorter 5km route with its multiple turning points requires dedicated space for safety.

"If the 10km and 5km races started close together as before, many 10km runners who haven't finished would encounter the large crowd from the 5km group, potentially causing congestion at intersections," said Duong Hai Anh, Race Director of the VnExpress Marathon system.

5km runners before the start of the VnExpress Marathon Nha Trang 2024. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

According to Anh, this change also aims to reduce traffic management pressure. Separate start times for each race would prolong road closures, impacting local life. Consolidating start times minimizes disruption and allows for more efficient allocation of logistics and medical personnel.

The 4 a.m. start time benefits 10km runners, offering cooler temperatures conducive to better performance. This is especially crucial on coastal routes during summer when temperatures typically rise rapidly after 7 a.m. The early separation of runners also reduces congestion between the 5km and 15km marks, where multiple race routes intersect.

"We've carefully considered both the runners' experience and the city's traffic conditions. A simultaneous start for the 10km and 21km races is the most appropriate choice in the current circumstances," Anh said.

A large group of 21km and 42km runners on Luong Son Pass during the VM Nha Trang 2023. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

The 42km race will begin at 2:30 a.m., 30 minutes earlier than last year. This start time has been implemented in VnExpress Marathons in Quy Nhon and Da Nang. For the Nha Trang race, this adjustment prevents congestion when elite 42km runners turn back towards the city center and potentially encounter the large group of 21km runners just starting.

"In previous years, elite 42km runners often had to sprint to overtake the 21km runners spread out ahead, impacting their race pace and safety," Anh explained.

The VnExpress Marathon Libera Nha Trang 2025 will take place on 24/8. This year, the route has been adjusted, requiring 42km runners to conquer only 8km of Luong Son Pass, instead of the previous 10km. The event is expected to attract 13,000 runners, concluding the summer series of three races within the VnExpress Marathon system. Registration closes on 7/8.

Lan Anh