The VnExpress Marathon Hai Phong 2025 is set to be a record-breaking event, drawing 14.000 athletes, the highest in the event series' history since 2019. This scale underscores its role beyond a mere competition, serving as a significant bridge for tourism and cultural exchange in Hai Phong.

Speaking at the press conference announcing the event on the afternoon of 19/12 at the Pullman Hotel, Dat shared his evolving perception of Hai Phong. He initially envisioned the city as an industrial hub, focused on manufacturing and trade. However, actual experiences brought him many surprises, revealing a vibrant city with a strong commitment to tourism.

"What impressed me is the city's significant focus on tourism development. Culinary and experiential tours are well-organized, and the locals are friendly. Running events like the VnExpress Marathon become a bridge, bringing people from many regions to Hai Phong to directly experience the local identity," Dat stated.

Nguyen Thanh Dat, communications director of Herbalife Vietnam, speaks at the press conference. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

From a sports perspective, the Herbalife representative assessed Hai Phong as having favorable terrain and weather conditions compared to many other stages in the VnExpress Marathon system. Chilly weather might pose challenges initially, but once the body adapts, these conditions help athletes maintain stable physical condition and improve personal performance.

Sharing this view, Nguyen Dinh Tu, head of the Hai Phong City Sports Management Department, believes the VnExpress Marathon is not merely a sports event. It also contributes to promoting tourism and enhancing the city's image, especially its urban nightlife, while spreading an active, healthy lifestyle within the community.

According to Tu, the running movement has grown strongly in recent years, becoming a healthy habit for millions of people. Throughout this journey, the VnExpress Marathon series plays an important role by creating a professional playground, connecting the running community across many provinces and cities.

Nguyen Dinh Tu, head of the Hai Phong City Sports Management Department. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

To ensure a safe and smooth event, the city has coordinated with departments and sectors to provide security, order, and healthcare. Concurrently, the Hai Phong Tourism Association called on member businesses to raise service standards, list prices publicly, and develop specific products for athletes and their families.

The VnExpress Marathon Hai Phong 2025 has attracted a record 14.000 athletes. The 42km distance drew about 5.000 participants, the 21km nearly 4.500, while the 5km and 10km distances continued to see an increase in amateur athletes. Notably, over 4.000 athletes are from Hai Phong, indicating the growing local running movement.

Representatives of the organizing committee interact and answer questions from runners. *Photo: VM*

With a route from the city center to Do Son and favorable weather conditions, the organizing committee expects the event to continue setting new performance milestones, following last season's "rain" of personal records.

Le Van Anh, deputy head of the organizing committee, introduces the VnExpress Marathon Hai Phong 2025. *Photo: VnExpress Marathon*

According to Le Van Anh, deputy head of the organizing committee, the large scale presents significant coordination challenges, especially for the 42km distance. Traffic diversion, shuttle arrangements, and course organization are meticulously prepared to ensure safety and facilitate optimal athlete performance.

"Hai Phong is not only a tourist destination but also a course where many runners hope to set personal records. With this year's weather and terrain conditions, we hope the race will see many new performance milestones across all distances," a representative of the organizing committee stated.

Last year, in weather conditions of 12-13 degrees Celsius, the race saw many personal records, with 91 athletes finishing under three hours and 387 completing it under 3 hours 30 minutes. Entering the 2025 season, the organizing committee expects the number of sub3 athletes to increase to about 150, along with other notable performance milestones.

Minh Ngoc