Long has run across Vietnam twice, in 2022 and 2024, but this run feels more significant because it coincides with National Day. "With this small act, I want to express my gratitude to the previous generations and the fallen heroes who built and protected our country," Long shared with VnExpress while resting in Ea H'leo, Dak Lak province, on the evening of 18/8.
In his previous cross-country runs, the Gia Lai native had a support team providing vehicle assistance, route clearing, logistics, and massages. This time, Long is running solo with just a backpack. "I want to test my limits, see how I fare on my own, and hopefully inspire other runners and walkers," Long said. "Traveling alone presents many challenges, but I will never give up. As long as I'm breathing, I'll keep running."
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Nguyen Van Long finishes his second cross-country run on Le Duan Street, Ho Chi Minh City on 30/4/2024. Photo: Thanh Nhan |
Nguyen Van Long finishes his second cross-country run on Le Duan Street, Ho Chi Minh City on 30/4/2024. Photo: Thanh Nhan
Long meticulously planned his third cross-country run, mapping out the details, routes, and itinerary.
Starting from the Ho Chi Minh City martyrs' cemetery on 14/8, the 40-year-old runner is passing through Dong Nai, Lam Dong, Dak Lak, Gia Lai, Quang Ngai, Da Nang, Hue, Quang Tri, Ha Tinh, Nghe An, Thanh Hoa, Ninh Binh, and finishing in Hanoi on 2/9. The total distance covered in 20 days is 1,636 km, averaging 82 km per day. To travel light, he carries only a 3.5 kg backpack containing three sets of light clothing, a headlamp, and tape.
Every day, the runner from Gia Lai wakes up between 4 and 4:30 a.m., runs until 8 a.m. for breakfast, continues until 11 a.m. for lunch, and resumes his journey in the afternoon. "I have to carefully manage my time and distance. On previous runs, if I finished in a remote area, the support team would take me back to the hotel on motorbikes. But this time, I'm on my own, so I plan my stops to coincide with hotels or guesthouses. There might be slight variations, so some days I run less, but I compensate by running longer the next day to stay on schedule," he explained.
Long's journey is not entirely solitary, as local runners join him for short stretches each day. However, he prioritizes safety. "I run early each morning, so I stick to the side of the road and use a headlamp for my safety and the safety of other road users," he said.
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Nguyen Van Long is on his cross-country journey to Hanoi. He is currently on the route from Dak Lak to Gia Lai, midday 19/9. Photo: FBNV |
Nguyen Van Long is on his cross-country journey to Hanoi. He is currently on the route from Dak Lak to Gia Lai, midday 19/9. Photo: FBNV
Having run across Vietnam twice before, Long is unfazed by potential difficulties. For example, on the morning he departed from Ho Chi Minh City, the sunny weather was encouraging, but by afternoon in Dong Nai, heavy rain made travel difficult. Despite the challenges, he persevered, even with bleeding feet and back pain, determined to reach his goal.
As a personal running coach, Long still finds time to create training plans and teach online classes for his students after each day's run. He is also grateful for his family's support. "Everyone has the right to pursue their dreams and plans. I'm fortunate to have their support, as long as I ensure my safety and the safety of others."
Nguyen Van Long, born in 1985, hails from Gia Lai. He started running later than many others in the field. In 2005, past the typical starting age, he joined the Gia Lai provincial athletics team and conquered the 42 km distance after just three months. His effort was recognized, and he was admitted to the provincial team at 21. Two years later, he represented Vietnam in a 42 km race in Kenya, achieving the best result among Southeast Asian runners.
The period from 2009 to 2012 marked the peak of Long's career. He won the 42 km race at the national athletics championships in 2009 and 2011, and the 21 km race at the Tien Phong Newspaper Marathon for three consecutive years, from 2010 to 2012. He later transitioned to amateur competition and is a familiar face in annual domestic races.
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Injuries are commonplace for Long after each day's run. Photo: FBNV |
Injuries are commonplace for Long after each day's run. Photo: FBNV
Long has earned the nickname "extraordinary man" among runners for his daring cross-country runs. "Human strength is limited, but the will is infinite. I always set challenges for myself to conquer, and I'm confident I can do it," the 40-year-old runner affirmed.
Duc Dong
