Vietnam's largest night marathon is set for the early hours of 22/3. Organizers commenced bib and race kit distribution this afternoon, 20/3, at the Thu Thiem urban area, on Tran Bach Dang street in An Khanh ward. Many athletes arrived as early as 12:00, patiently waiting in line for the doors to open despite the warm weather.

Long lines of runners waited for the expo area to open. The opening ceremony, held earlier within this same area, had already created a lively atmosphere.

This year's event has attracted 13,000 athletes, both domestic and international. The 21km distance is the most popular, with its start scheduled for 2:30 on 22/3 at Tao Dan Park. The 5km, 10km, and 42km races will commence at 0:05, 0:45, and 1:15 respectively.

Three international runners, competing in the 21km distance, arrived early to collect their bibs. Making their debut at the Ho Chi Minh City night race, they praised the variety of items in the race kit, designed to help replenish energy both before and after the event.

Tiktoker Khanh Thu, who runs the khanhthuhocchaybo channel with nearly 2,000 followers, also arrived early to check in, collect her race items, and her 5km bib.

KOL Nguyen Minh Tien, recognized for his active lifestyle and passion for travel and new experiences, is also set to join the 13,000 runners on 22/3.

The organizers meticulously partitioned the bib distribution area and installed clear signage, facilitating smooth movement for athletes. Over 50 volunteers were deployed to assist runners with information verification and prompt collection of their race items.

Adjacent to the bib collection zone, an expo space features approximately 30 interactive and entertainment booths. At the PVI insurance booth, runners could participate in a ring toss game, winning prizes such as thermal bottles, milk, teddy bears, and helmets.

At the Kiri booth, runners sampled cheese and received gifts. This product is also included in the race kits for both the 21km and 42km distances.

Runners crowded the Long Chau Pharmacy booth, where they explored various nutritional supplements to aid their race preparation.

The FPT Shop booth attracted numerous athletes with a pickleball competition offering prizes. Alongside running, pickleball is currently a popular recreational sport.

Many runners used the opportunity to purchase apparel, accessories, and nutritional supplements from the booths, completing their preparations for race day.

Athletes checked in alongside a giant neon green Puma Deviate Nitro 4 shoe model. This footwear is among the awards for this year's age group winners.

Scheduled one month after the Lunar New Year holiday, the VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight 2026 offers the running community an ideal opportunity to resume their training. Having been organized for three seasons, the event has consistently expanded its scale. The route will guide athletes past iconic Ho Chi Minh City landmarks, including the Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Bach Dang wharf, and Ba Son bridge, allowing them to experience the vibrant nightlife of the nation's largest metropolis.

By Thy An

Photos: Duc Dong