The VnExpress Marathon All-Star race, featuring 1,500 runners, is set to face challenging weather conditions on 8/2. According to AccuWeather data, the Hoa Lac area will experience a cold front and monsoon winds, with actual temperatures ranging from 12-16 degrees Celsius. The primary challenge, however, will be the combination of rain and strong winds.

Specifically, winds are forecast to average 24 km/h, with gusts reaching 39 km/h at times. This wind speed, combined with drizzle, will make the real feel temperature around 13 degrees Celsius in the morning, dropping to 9 degrees Celsius at night and early morning.

Last year's VM All-Star saw athletes compete in hot, humid conditions. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

At the 42 km (5:00 AM) and 21 km (5:30 AM) starting times, it will be dark, rainy, and bitterly cold. Conditions below 10 degrees Celsius can lead to thermal shock or muscle stiffness if athletes do not stay adequately warm.

Medical experts advise runners to wear windbreaker jackets during warm-ups and the initial kilometers in strong winds. Using gloves, arm sleeves, and applying warming oil are essential strategies to combat heat loss due to wind.

Furthermore, humidity will remain high, from 80-84%, with a 72% chance of rain. High humidity hinders sweat evaporation, quickly saturating clothing, increasing carried weight, and raising the risk of chafing. Athletes should prioritize snug-fitting apparel made from moisture-wicking synthetic materials and thoroughly apply Vaseline to sensitive areas.

Cold weather helps maintain a lower heart rate compared to exercising in hot conditions, as the body reduces the energy burden for heat dissipation. This allows runners to sustain high speeds, limit early exhaustion, and presents an opportunity to break personal records (PRs) if they manage their effort wisely and utilize wind direction.

This year, the organizing committee will distribute race bibs at ParkCity Hanoi urban area (Le Trong Tan Street). On 8/2, athletes will compete at Hoa Lac High-Tech Park. The course remains the same as the previous season, with the 42 km marathon designed as two loops of the 21 km course. The start and finish lines are located at the National Innovation Center (NIC).

According to the organizing committee, this course design maintains an optimal structure for performance-seeking athletes, a design proven effective since the 2025 season.

Lan Anh