This assessment was made by Nguyen Trong Thao, deputy director of the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, during a press conference announcing the race on the morning of 18/7 at the Muong Thanh Hotel. He noted that the running movement in Da Nang is very active, with many large-scale races held regularly throughout the year.

This is the second year the VnExpress Marathon Da Nang has taken place, attracting over 11,000 athletes—50% more than last year. The city expects the race to become a highlight event, contributing to its image as a youthful, dynamic, and friendly city and a key sports tourism destination in central Vietnam.

Le Trong Thao, deputy director of the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Photo: Duc Dong

Le Trong Thao, deputy director of the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Photo: Duc Dong

"This year's race has one of the most beautiful running routes in Vietnam. Runners can fully explore the beauty of the coastal city, crossing the Dragon Bridge, Tran Thi Ly Bridge, Thuan Phuoc Bridge, along the Han River, and by My Khe Beach," Thao said, adding that the city has mobilized forces to manage traffic and ensure security along the route.

Tourism officials also praised the race's economic and cultural impact. "If well organized, next year's race could attract 15,000 runners," he said.

Thao hopes sporting events like the VnExpress Marathon will contribute to the city's nighttime economy. He noted that runners often stay within the inner city to prepare for the race. Therefore, the city hopes to introduce runners to more local nightlife spots, such as the Man Thuong Night Street and the night market at the foot of the Dragon Bridge. Thao wants sporting events to combine entertainment, experience, and tourism to diversify activities.

The organizing committee introduces information about the race at the press conference. Photo: Duc Dong

The organizing committee introduces information about the race at the press conference. Photo: Duc Dong

Le Van Anh, deputy head of the organizing committee, said the VM Da Nang is the 29th race in the system. The race shifted from a night run to a day run to increase accessibility. The number of runners has increased by 50% compared to last year. The number of runners from Da Nang has also increased by 50%, demonstrating the growth of the local sports movement.

Medical care is emphasized, with dozens of rapid response teams along the route. The teams include doctors, nurses, and volunteers, ensuring they can quickly reach those needing medical assistance within minutes. From kilometer 30 onwards, the density of water and medical stations increases. For security, the race coordinates with local police, deploying many forces to manage the running route and monitor hotspots like the starting line and finish line.

On race day, 20/7, baggage check for all distances will open at 0:30. The 42 km race starts at 2:30, with cut-off times (COT) at km 12 (4:30), km 20 (5:30), km 32.7 (7:30), and km 38.6 (8:20). The course closes at 9:00.

The 21 km race begins at 3:30, with two COTs at km 8.5 (4:55) and km 16.6 (6:20). The course closes at 7:00. The 5 km and 10 km races start at 5:00 and 5:30, respectively, and end before 7:30.

To support participants, Grab, the transportation sponsor, is offering two promotional codes: one for a 50% discount (up to 100,000 VND) and one for a 25% discount (up to 50,000 VND), applicable to the first 10,000 people. Discount code information will be sent via the email registered with the organizing committee.

Hoai Phuong