With 9,000 participants, the VnExpress Marathon Can Tho became one of the largest sporting events the city has ever hosted.

The race began at 2:30 a.m. with the first wave of runners tackling the 42km distance. For its debut in the southwest region, the VnExpress Marathon featured blue running shirts, evoking the Mekong Delta's waterways. Thousands of 21km runners lined up, awaiting the starting signal.

The 42km runners started their race at 2:30 a.m. This distance presented the greatest challenge, requiring runners to cross 14 bridges in over 90% humidity. At the front of the pack were well-known amateur runners like Truong Van Tam, Le Minh Tuan, and Le Thu Ha.

The runners' blue shirts dotted the city's central streets. In the distance is the Can Tho Bridge, connecting Can Tho and Vinh Long.

The course passed by city landmarks such as Ninh Kieu Bridge, Con Cai Khe, Luu Huu Phuoc Park, and Thoi Long Co Tu. Participating in marathons has become a popular way to explore new destinations.

The peaceful Ninh Kieu Bridge at night. This is where the city's urban rhythm meets the tranquility of the Hau River. Golden lights stretched along the bridge, reflecting onto the still water dotted with the silhouettes of runners.

At the Vo Van Kiet - Le Phuoc Tho roundabout, the 30km mark of the 42km course, the runners merged with the awakening city. The brightly lit street with high-mast lamps helped them maintain a steady pace after completing almost three-quarters of the race.

Darker sections of the route were illuminated by Xanh SM electric vehicles, the race's transportation partner. This solution addressed infrastructure limitations, ensuring a positive runner experience.

Runners traversed the inner-city streets while the city was still shrouded in the early morning mist.

Sunrise over the Hau River signaled the start of a new day. Local shops and vendors had already begun their day. Some residents stood along the route, cheering on the runners.