Tran Huu Thuy Giang, Vice Chairman of Hue City People's Committee, shared this information at the opening ceremony of the race at noon on 17/4. Giang has been involved with the VnExpress Marathon since its inaugural season in 2020, when he worked at the Thua Thien Hue Provincial Department of Tourism, witnessing the event's growth over several seasons.

According to Giang, the race's appeal lies in its professional organization and a course that emphasizes "running through heritage". Starting with approximately 4,000 participants in its first season, the event has consistently expanded. Last year, the event welcomed 13,000 runners, while this year it will host 8,000 due to the temporary suspension of the 42km distance.

Tran Huu Thuy Giang, Vice Chairman of Hue City People's Committee, speaks at the opening ceremony. Photo: Duc Dong

Local leaders note that since the VnExpress Marathon began, the city's sports rhythm has become more vibrant. Additionally, each season provides an opportunity for Hue to promote its cultural beauty, heritage, and scenic attractions to domestic and international runners.

"This year, the race coincides with the summer festival, featuring many activities. We are also opening Dai Noi for evening tours. This will be a highlight for runners and their families to experience during their visit to Hue this time", Giang stated.

Regarding organization, city leaders affirmed that Hue consistently treats VM Hue as a key event, mobilizing significant resources for security, environment, and electricity. A total of over 900 local personnel are deployed to provide support, alongside 900 volunteers and 200 organizing committee members. Giang emphasized that the 8,000 runners will experience a green, clean, beautiful, and bright heritage route.

Representatives of the organizing committee present letters of gratitude to accompanying units. Photo: Duc Dong

"With the support of the locality and the efforts of the organizing committee, I believe the race will be successful and leave a lasting impression on athletes", the People's Committee leader affirmed.

Le Van Anh, Vice Head of the Organizing Committee, shared that over six seasons, Hue has become a unique destination, embraced by the national running community. The running experience in the ancient capital is "one-of-a-kind", allowing runners to stride along ancient roads, pass through historical landmarks, and feel the poetic beauty of the heritage land. Simultaneously, runners can also witness Hue's transformation with its modern, vibrant urban sections.

From a technical perspective, reducing the 42km distance improves logistics and traffic flow. By minimizing route conflicts and traffic disruptions, the remaining distances are optimally designed, passing through more scenic attractions. Water stations, security, and safety support are also faster compared to previous seasons.

The 6th season of VnExpress Marathon Hue starts at 4h on 19/4. The running course is a highlight. Besides running past iconic structures such as Nghinh Luong Dinh, Phu Van Lau, Truong Tien Bridge, and central roads, runners will have an enhanced opportunity to experience the depth of heritage, as some sections have been adjusted to delve deeper into the Hue Imperial City area.

Delegates perform the opening ceremony ritual. Photo: Duc Dong.

The 21km distance stands out with a route that encircles the ancient imperial city. Starting from Le Duan Street at 4h, athletes will cross the Perfume River, pass through Nguyen Trai, Luong Ngoc Quyen, Dinh Tien Hoang streets, and then continue along four routes around Dai Noi: Dang Thai Than, Le Huan, 23 Thang 8, and Doan Thi Diem.

The race expanded the number of overall winners to 5 instead of 3. The 21km champion receives a prize package worth 14,372 million VND (including 8 million VND in cash, Puma shoes, and Duoc Dong A product set). Second and third place winners receive prize packages worth 13,372 million VND (7 million VND in cash) and 12,372 million VND (6 million VND in cash), respectively. The fourth and fifth place athletes receive prizes of 10,95 million VND (5 million VND in cash) and 9,95 million VND (4 million VND in cash), along with Puma shoes.

Runners participating in the race also receive free entry to many tourist attractions, creating a sports and tourism experience.

Hoai Phuong