Sports combined with tourism is a growing trend in recent years, with many runners preferring natural environments over bustling urban areas. Can Gio, a district just over an hour from central TP HCM, is emerging as a premier destination for these enthusiasts. This area captivates runners with its flat routes winding through extensive mangrove forests and along open coastal stretches, offering a unique blend of natural beauty.
Recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve, the Can Gio mangrove ecosystem presents a landscape dominated by lush greenery, with minimal urban development. Wide, paved roads cut through dense mangrove forests and a network of canals, creating a distinctive environment where runners are immersed in nature. This setting provides a welcome escape from urban life, allowing participants to enjoy refreshing air, the sound of wind, and the gentle lapping of waves.
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The route through the forest, crossing canals in Can Gio. Photo: Thanh Tung |
Popular running routes in Can Gio traverse the Rung Sac route and coastal roads leading to the former Can Thanh town, now Can Gio commune. These paths are mostly flat, with limited large vehicle traffic, making them ideal for long runs during early mornings or late afternoons. As dawn breaks, sunlight filters through the forest canopy, creating a distinctive ecological running experience.
The unique experiences offered by Can Gio draw seasoned runners like Anna Le, a renowned amateur runner who visits annually. Having competed in numerous races nationwide, the Hanoi-born runner praises Can Gio's "excellent" climate and course. "The roads are almost without slopes, and the air is always refreshing, a quality few other places can offer," Anna Le remarked.
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Anna Le running in Can Gio. Photo: NVCC |
Dan Quyet, a leading amateur runner from TP HCM, echoes this sentiment, highlighting Can Gio's extensive green course. He notes that the air remains pleasant even on summer days. "The roads here are not steep, suitable for both beginners seeking experience and professionals looking for a challenge," Quyet added. These distinct features will soon be showcased to a wider audience with the VnExpress Marathon Green Paradise Can Gio, scheduled for 1/5. This event marks the first time the VnExpress Marathon series comes to TP HCM's "green lung."
The marathon expects to attract 5,000-8,000 athletes, competing across four distances: 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, and 42 km. A key highlight of the race is its unique route, which seamlessly combines the mangrove forest environment with coastal areas. According to the organizers, the event aims to leverage Can Gio's natural advantages to create a highly experiential and green course within the VnExpress Marathon system. "Runners will both participate in a sports competition and explore the local ecosystem. This is a rare route in TP HCM that combines forest, sea, and open space in a single itinerary," a representative for the organizing committee stated.
The organization of the VnExpress Marathon in Can Gio is anticipated to establish the district as a new, prominent destination for the Southern running community. With its routes through mangrove forests, direct access to the sea, and exceptional natural environment, runners are guaranteed to feel the essence of nature with every stride.
Hoai Phuong
