Following his sub-one hour 40 minute half marathon (21 km) milestone at a Ho Chi Minh City race, Song is preparing for a greater challenge: conquering a sub-4 marathon at the VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight 2026 on 22/3. For a visually impaired runner, however, performance depends not only on physical stamina or willpower but also on finding a guide runner capable of accompanying them for the entire 42 km.

Visually impaired runner Doan Hong Song during a training session. *Photo: NVCC*

Doan Hong Song, born in 1995, lives in Ho Chi Minh City. Within the running community, many affectionately call him the "visually impaired elite runner". Earlier this year, he completed a 21 km race in one hour 39 minutes 51 seconds, notably running barefoot.

For a visually impaired runner, each stride demands not only body awareness but also focus and the courage to overcome the fear of losing balance. Completing a half marathon in under one hour 40 minutes is a significant challenge, but doing so barefoot highlights his remarkable willpower and adaptability.

This performance translates to an average pace of about 4 minutes 44 seconds per km, a high speed for many amateur runners. To achieve a sub-4 marathon, an athlete must maintain a pace of approximately 5:40/km over 42 km. Compared to his current half marathon time, Song's goal is feasible with consistent fitness and a sound strategy. He previously completed a marathon in Ho Chi Minh City last year with a time of 4 hours 15 minutes.

Song runs barefoot with a guide runner during a 21 km race, achieving one hour 39 minutes 51 seconds. *Photo: NVCC*

The 31-year-old runner has been preparing for this night marathon for several weeks. His current training volume is about 50 km per week, including long runs for endurance, combined with swimming and jump rope to improve overall fitness.

"Each week, I aim to maintain my running volume and incorporate supplementary exercises. For a visually impaired runner like me, sub-4 is not just a performance goal; it's a milestone to prove I can run as fast and as far as anyone," he said.

However, for a visually impaired runner, the challenge extends beyond physical training. The guide runner is also a critical factor determining the ability to complete the race.

In races, visually impaired athletes run with a guide, connected by a tether between their arms to maintain pace and ensure safety. The guide not only warns of obstacles but must also maintain a speed consistent with the athlete. When aiming for a high performance, selecting the right guide runner becomes even more crucial for the entire 42 km race.

This makes Song's sub-4 goal more challenging. Some runners who previously guided him cannot participate this time due to personal commitments or concerns about their stamina to maintain a steady pace for 4 hours.

"I am still searching for a suitable guide. I hope someone will accompany me to attempt this sub-4 goal," he said, expressing gratitude to the running community for its ongoing support.

Born with a visual impairment, Doan Hong Song currently works as a massage therapist, specializing in post-exercise recovery and stretching for many clients, including runners. He began running in 2022 and now trains with the Ho Chi Minh City disabled athletics team.

Hai Long

The VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight 2026, taking place on 22/3, is Vietnam's largest night race. In its 4th season, the event has attracted a record 13,000 domestic and international athletes. Running through iconic Ho Chi Minh City landmarks such as Tao Dan Park, Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Nguyen Hue walking street at night promises a unique experience, helping runners achieve both performance breakthroughs and mental strength.