The VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight, scheduled for 29/11 with an expected 10,000 participants, announced the early closure of its 21km registration. This decision came one day after the Early Bird bib sales phase concluded on 15/10. The 21km distance had accounted for over 52% of registrations at that time, an estimated 4,000 participants, pushing total registrations past 8,000. Consequently, the half marathon distance closed 23 days earlier than planned and 43 days before race day.

"The organizing committee sincerely thanks the athletes for their interest and support for the race. We hope for understanding from those who could not register for the 21km distance this season," the announcement stated. Some runners expressed regret for not registering in time.

Hoang Viet Vy Ly finished second in the 21km at VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight 2025. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

The high demand for the 21km race was notable. Following the 21km, the 10km distance garnered nearly 22% of registrations, the 42km more than 15%, and the 5km more than 11%. The two long distances, 21km and 42km combined, accounted for 67% of registrations, double that of the shorter distances. This preference for longer distances is uncommon in amateur races, where 5km and 10km typically dominate due to their accessibility for new runners.

The three remaining distances – 5km, 10km, and 42km – remain open for registration until further notice, past the original Regular phase deadline of 6/11 and Late phase (7-9/11). For runners who missed 21km registration, the 10km distance offers the closest challenge. The 42km distance is suitable for those with an endurance base and at least several months of preparation. The 43-day period until race day is sufficient for a training cycle for shorter distances, but not enough to transition to a marathon if one has not previously run long distances.

Each Hanoi Midnight distance offers a unique perspective of Hanoi at night, with staggered start times. The 2025 season attracted about 10,000 athletes, including over 1,000 international runners from 43 countries and territories. For the upcoming event, the 42km distance starts at 0:05, the 10km at 1:00, the 5km at 1:30, while the 21km begins at 2:00, the city's quietest time.

By Minh Khang

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