The VnExpress Marathon (VM) Can Tho expo at Song Hau Park was bustling with runners collecting their bibs on the morning of 13/9. In its inaugural Mekong Delta edition, the VM attracted 9,000 participants, including over 100 international runners. The largest contingents came from China, South Korea, and Japan.

Many international runners expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to experience the Mekong Delta along the race route. They noted the flat terrain, pleasant weather, and riverside scenery offered a unique experience compared to previous coastal races.

Chang Lung aims to finish the half marathon in under two hours to enjoy the sunrise over the Hau River. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Chang Lung aims to finish the half marathon in under two hours to enjoy the sunrise over the Hau River. Photo: VnExpress Marathon

Chang Lung, a 61-year-old from Brunei, a veteran of VM Nha Trang and Quy Nhon, is tackling the 21km distance in Can Tho. "The expo today was incredibly lively and crowded, but thanks to the organizers' clear directions, I got my bib quickly. I hope to finish the race in under two hours and enjoy the sunrise over the Hau River," he shared.

Chang Lung arrived in Can Tho yesterday and has already sampled pho, hu tieu, and banh canh, expressing his appreciation for the local hospitality and fresh air.

Anthony targets 1 hour and 50 minutes for the 21km race. Photo: Hai Long

Anthony targets 1 hour and 50 minutes for the 21km race. Photo: Hai Long

Anthony, a 40-year-old Mexican runner who has lived in Ho Chi Minh City for six years, sees this race as a chance to explore a new region with his girlfriend. "I've participated in about 10 to 15 VnExpress Marathons, but never in the Mekong Delta. Can Tho feels different – less crowded, with wide roads, and pleasant weather," he said.

Richard, a 61-year-old from the UK, a resident of Ho Chi Minh City for over two decades, is participating in the VM Can Tho due to a coinciding business trip. His family arrived two days earlier to combine sightseeing with work. "After getting my bib, I'm eager to find some local specialties to kick off my Mekong Delta exploration," Richard commented.

Richard and his daughter check in with a Vietnamese runner at the expo. Photo: Hai Long

Richard and his daughter check in with a Vietnamese runner at the expo. Photo: Hai Long

In the 42km category, Kento Kabashima, a Japanese runner and a long-time participant in the VnExpress Marathon series, was studying the race route. He's among the elite runners with a potential to win.

Kento shared, "The flat terrain here is perfect for setting a personal best. The riverside atmosphere offers a novel experience compared to previous coastal races. Having the expo right by the Hau River creates a special feeling, making me feel like I'm embarking on a Mekong Delta adventure."

Kento is excited to participate in the 42km race on the morning of 14/9. Photo: Hai Long

Kento is excited to participate in the 42km race on the morning of 14/9. Photo: Hai Long

Not just visitors, but also expats living in Can Tho are looking forward to the event. Martin Steirmann, a German chef, said, "I'm thrilled that the city is hosting a major marathon, where runners can combine athletic pursuits with experiencing the culture and beauty of Can Tho. My wife will be running the 21km, and I'll be at the finish line to cheer her on."

Hai Long