For this year's VnExpress Marathon Hue, organizers selected the khanh shape as the medal's design, a distinctive decorative motif often seen on temple and tomb doorways, as well as screens within Nguyen Dynasty heritage sites.
In Hue culture, the khanh shape symbolizes peace and auspiciousness. It also evokes the golden and jade khanh awards bestowed by the emperor upon meritorious individuals.
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The VnExpress Marathon Hue 2026 medal is khanh-shaped. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*
An organizing committee representative shared, "Inspired by this motif, the design team transformed the khanh shape into the main structural element. The medal now serves as an honorary gift, rich in the city's identity, commemorating runners' efforts after completing the challenge."
Beyond its overall form, the medal design also depicts two iconic Hue structures: Nghenh Luong Dinh and Phu Van Lau. These sites have previously served as start/finish lines and expo areas for VnExpress Marathon Hue, and are familiar images found on the 50,000 VND banknote.
On the front, Nghenh Luong Dinh is centrally placed. The historic architectural structure appears distinct against a deep red background, with stylized clouds behind it evoking a royal court atmosphere. The combination of red and metallic hues creates a warm, dignified feel, highlighting the majesty of the relic on the Perfume River. Surrounding the khanh shape is an interlocking scroll pattern, forming a visual frame imbued with traditional art. The word "Hue" in a stylized font is prominently positioned below as an identifying highlight.
The back design is more understated, featuring a dominant metallic tone to emphasize Phu Van Lau. This structure, once a place for displaying imperial edicts, is rendered with clean, engraved lines, giving it a classical and contemplative feel.
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Images of Nghenh Luong Dinh and Phu Van Lau on the VnExpress Marathon Hue 2026 medal. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*
The bottom of the medal includes a fanned-out fan motif, inspired by the renowned Vu Phien fan dance, a form of royal court art. This detail adds a soft touch and is a familiar connecting element that has appeared on previous VnExpress Marathon Hue medals.
Over five editions, the imagery of Hue on VnExpress Marathon medals has been reinterpreted through various motifs, from the Vu Phien fan dance to cultural symbols such as the phoenix or the paulownia tree. This year, the khanh-shaped medal will accompany runners along a route winding through Hue Imperial City, Truong Tien Bridge, and tree-lined central streets.
The race is scheduled to start on 19/4 and is currently offering early bird phase tickets. Interested runners can find details and register here.
Hai Long
