On the afternoon of 17/7, under Da Nang's 37-degree Celsius heat, Juanito Rondeau and his daughter Louise walked through the exhibition area of the VM Da Nang 2026 race, trying to find a way to purchase entry. They held A4 sheets of paper with printed messages. Juanito's sheet, written in Vietnamese, read: "My daughter and I want to register for the 5km and 10km races, please help us." The sheet in Louise's hand carried the same message in English, next to a heart she had colored in: "My father and I would like to register for the 5km and 10km runs, please?".
The father and daughter do not speak English. They traveled from Charleville-Mezieres, a city in northeastern France known for its cool climate with an average annual temperature of just 10 degrees Celsius. Leaving that cold behind, they arrived in the central coastal city wearing yellow running shirts from their local club. Juanito repeatedly pointed to the club's name on his shirt and explained: "We train regularly with everyone back home. My daughter is 10 years old and loves running."
During their flight to Da Nang on 11/7, Juanito happened to read about VM Da Nang 2026. He told his daughter: "We are going to Da Nang and will participate in this race." However, marathon registration had closed on 8/7. Out of options, Juanito came up with the idea of printing the A4 sheets, hoping someone could help them.
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Juanito and Louise holding papers requesting bibs at VM Da Nang 2026. Photo: Duc Dong |
Fortunately for Juanito and his daughter, they arrived at the exhibition area just as the opening ceremony was taking place. Upon hearing their story, an official from the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism helped Louise secure a bib for the 5km distance. Juanito's 10km race bib was generously provided by Herbalife, a partner of the event.
The father and daughter were delighted, taking photos to share the news with friends back home after receiving their race bibs. Louise excitedly opened her race-kit bag, admiring each sponsor's gift – a novel experience for her, as races in Europe typically do not offer such a wide array of items as those in Vietnam.
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The father and daughter were thrilled to receive race bib support. Photo: Duc Dong |
Louise even received a complimentary ticket from an organizing committee member to participate in the Kun Marathon Da Nang, a race for children aged 6-10, held on the morning of 18/7. The next day, Juanito brought his daughter to the event. They joined Vietnamese families, competing and enjoying various fun activities.
On the morning of 19/7, the two French tourists arrived promptly to join 13,000 athletes in conquering the VnExpress Da Nang International Marathon Herbalife Cup 2026. Juanito competed in the 10km distance, starting at 5h30 and finishing in 53 minutes 42 seconds. Louise participated in the 5km race, which started at 6h30. She patiently waited for her father at the finish line before starting her own race, completing 5km in 28 minutes 57 seconds.
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Juanito running on Dragon Bridge.
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Louise participating in the 5km distance.
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The father and daughter celebrating at the finish line.
After the race, Juanito and Louise stayed in Da Nang until 22/7 before flying to TP HCM. They will remain in Vietnam until 24/7, then return to France.
"We are very happy and proud to have participated in this race. Vietnam has truly impressed us. My daughter and I received a lot of help, just like the race organizers provided," Juanito said.
Quang Huy
