Entering its second year, the VnExpress Marathon All-Star maintains its selection-based model, focusing on performance and professional criteria. The 100 million dong prize is sustained to attract domestic and international elite athletes, thereby upholding the race's competitive standard.

Kennedy Njogu Muhia (Kenya) won the 2025 season with a time of 2 hours 16 minutes 52 seconds. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*.

In the previous season, Kennedy Njogu Muhia (Kenya) won the 42km distance with a time of 2 hours 16 minutes 52 seconds, then the best marathon time ever recorded in Vietnam. In the women's category, Pham Thi Hong Le achieved a personal best of 2 hours 44 minutes. Organizers anticipate this year's race conditions will continue to provide opportunities for athletes to reach new milestones.

Beyond the championship title, organizers plan to award additional cash and in-kind prizes to top-ranked runners in both the 21km and 42km distances. The detailed prize structure will be announced later.

"The All-Star is not just a race; it is a platform that acknowledges true capability and diligent preparation. This prize aims to encourage runners to train systematically and compete fairly," a representative from the organizing committee stated.

The VnExpress Marathon All-Star is structured like major marathons, applying strict entry standards and prioritizing a high-performance racing environment. The event takes place in early February, during the coldest and driest period in the North, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 20 degrees Celsius, ideal for marathon running.

The course in Hoa Lac, Hanoi, often referred to by many runners as the "temple of speed," features a low incline, excellent paved surface, few sharp turns, and is fully closed to traffic. Athletes start in waves, supported by numerous water, gel, and electrolyte stations strategically placed to aid high-speed running.

To qualify for the race, male athletes must complete the 42km distance in under 4 hours or the 21km distance in under 2 hours. Female athletes must complete the full marathon in under 5 hours or the half marathon in under 2 hours 30 minutes.

Hai Long