Police sector race grows 1.7 times in size after one year

With participants increasing from 3,000 to 5,000 and a marathon distance introduced for the first time, the "81 Years Journey - For National Security" race demonstrates growing appeal after two seasons.

In just one year, the Police sector running race, themed "81 Years Journey - For National Security", has significantly expanded its scale and appeal. Starting from 3,000 athletes in its debut season on 24/8/2025, this year's event attracted over 5,000 runners to NovaWorld Phan Thiet, Lam Dong. The race also introduced a 42km full marathon distance for the first time, marking three notable developments: increased participant numbers, a comprehensive range of distances, and growing popularity beyond the police force.

Scale increases nearly 1.7 times

Over 5,000 athletes participated in the "81 Years Journey - For National Security" race at NovaWorld Phan Thiet on 2/8. This marks a nearly 1.7-fold increase from the more than 3,000 participants in the inaugural event held at the same venue in 2025.

Thousands of 5km runners prepare to start. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

This growth positions the race as one of the fastest-expanding themed running events. It draws not only police officers but also amateur runners, running clubs, and athletes who have competed in major national races. This year, the race took place as part of Sports Festival 2026 at NovaWorld Phan Thiet. Participants not only competed but also engaged in a series of events featuring 12 sports, including: golf, pickleball, tennis, cycling, triathlon, and kickboxing. This transformed the coastal destination into a multi-week sports festival.

Comprehensive competition system

While the inaugural season featured only three distances—5km, 10km, and 21km—this year marked the introduction of the 42km full marathon. This significant upgrade positions the "81 Years Journey - For National Security" race as an event offering all four popular long-distance running categories. Hosting a full marathon imposes higher operational demands. The course requires standard measurement, extended road closures, and enhanced water stations, medical support, and coordination teams along the entire route.

Runners, wearing the race's red jerseys, fill the course. Photo: VM

The inclusion of the 42km distance also broadened the participant demographic. Beyond those new to running at the 5km and 10km distances, the race attracted full marathon enthusiasts, a group known for selecting events based on course quality and organization. The professional standard of the race also elevated with the participation of many experienced runners. The men's marathon featured a close contest among Truong Van Tam, Pham Ngoc Phan, and Dan Quyet. Pham Ngoc Phan (Lam Dong) staged a remarkable comeback by conserving energy and accelerating in the final kilometers. In the men's 10km event, Pham Minh Thi secured victory in his debut race.

From an internal activity to a community playground

Launched to commemorate the Traditional Day of the Public Security Force, the "81 Years Journey - For National Security" race initially aimed to promote physical training among police personnel. After two seasons, the event has expanded its reach, attracting a growing number of running enthusiasts from outside the sector. This trend mirrors the growing running movement across Vietnam. In recent years, numerous themed running events, organized by local authorities, businesses, and social organizations, have evolved beyond their initial target groups. They are now mass sports events that combine destination promotion, tourism, and experiential activities.

5,000 runners receive bibs for the 81 years police sector race. Video: Van Loc

Thai Anh