Two years ago, Kostya Golub, a Ukrainian who has lived and worked in Nha Trang for over a decade, registered for the VnExpress Marathon, intending to just try it out. Unexpectedly, that decision became a turning point in his lifestyle.

Initially a non-runner, Kostya developed a passion for the sport after his first start line experience. Consistent training improved his physical fitness and helped him abandon smoking, a habit he had for many years.

"Running changed my life. After starting to train, I quit smoking and feel much healthier," Kostya said.

Kostya sprints in the final kilometers of the 21km race. *VnExpress Marathon*

Beyond his own passion for running, the Ukrainian runner also encouraged many friends to join him. According to him, several people in his group have also reduced smoking and alcohol consumption, forming healthy exercise habits after embracing the sport.

"I always encourage my friends to run together. We train, participate in races, and motivate each other to maintain healthy lifestyles," he said.

On the morning of 9/8, Kostya returned to the VnExpress Marathon Nha Trang 2026 for the 21km distance. He completed the race in one hour 36 minutes 55 seconds, becoming one of the first international runners to cross the finish line.

The Ukrainian runner has lived and worked in Nha Trang for 11 years, making him familiar with the terrain, routes, and weather. *VnExpress Marathon*

While Kostya views running as a life-changing turning point, Ivan Taskaev, a Russian runner, most remembers his experiences on the Nha Trang course. Ivan arrived here about three months ago and is a member of the Tosa Team Running Club, a club founded by a compatriot with about 10 Russian runners.

Participating in the VnExpress Marathon Nha Trang for the first time, he registered for the 10km distance and finished in one hour 13 minutes. According to Ivan, the event's organization left a strong impression, from the bib collection process and expo space to race day coordination. "I really liked how the organizers ran the event. Everything was professional and easy to follow," he said.

Notably, what the Russian runner remembered most were the aid stations. He believes small details like water points, fruit, and volunteers contributed to a positive experience. These are elements runners often appreciate most during a long race.

"I always looked forward to the next station for water and watermelon. The watermelon here is delicious; sometimes I had to remind myself not to eat too much," Ivan shared.

Ivan (left) at the finish line with a Vietnamese athlete. *VnExpress Marathon*

Meanwhile, Vasa, a Swedish runner living in TP HCM, viewed the VnExpress Marathon Nha Trang 2026 as an opportunity to return to the coastal city after a previous visit. He and his girlfriend registered for the race, completing the 21km distance in one hour 59 minutes 35 seconds.

This year, the new course challenged long-distance runners with Luong Son Pass, a section many athletes considered one of the most difficult. However, for Vasa, this was the most memorable experience.

"I got to watch the sunrise over Nha Trang Bay while running through the pass. There was a sea breeze and light rain, making it a very pleasant feeling," he shared.

Vasa stated he would return to VnExpress Marathon Nha Trang next year due to his love for the scenery and running routes. *VnExpress Marathon*

Running with pacers for the first time also left a special impression on the Swedish runner. He believes that running alone would have been more difficult. Thanks to the pacers, he always knew his pace and simply had to follow them to the finish line. The runner encourages others to try running with pacers, as it makes the race easier and is an effective way to improve performance.

For Kostya, Ivan, and Vasa, the VnExpress Marathon Nha Trang is more than just a race. Each person comes to the event with a different story, but all find unique value, from lifestyle changes and community connection to discovering the coastal city's beauty. This is why many international runners continue to choose Nha Trang as a destination for their running journeys.

Thy An