Thua Thien - Hue Duy Duong and Khanh Thien's group of six close friends are determined to conquer VnExpress Marathon Hue 2024 for the eye-catching medals.
Four young people living and working in Hanoi joined the crowd at the Expo area in Nghenh Luong Dinh to receive their race kits. Two female members registered for 5 km, four male members chose their favorite distance of 21 km. The group happily chatted and were excited to race together in the second marathon. Previously, they had run together in the playground held in Trang An, Ninh Binh.
"Our group wants to have more unforgettable memories in Hue, not focusing on achievements," Cam Tu said. Meanwhile, Duy Duong and three other guys hope to complete the half marathon in under 2 hours and 30 minutes, determined not to give up halfway because they are fascinated by the medal shape inspired by the Hue Imperial City seen from above - a place with a lively terrain, "coiling dragon - sitting tiger".
Member Duy Duong said: "The group encouraged each other not to give up because the VnExpress Marathon Hue 2024 medal was so eye-catching and impressive. We must definitely bring the medal home and hang it in the most visible corner. I like the screen - an inseparable architectural feature of the garden house, along with the consort's command token that becomes the medal frame."
A group of young people came to receive their Bibs on the afternoon of April 19. From left: Tien Dung, Khanh Thien, Cam Tu, Dinh Tung, Duy Duong. Another member of the group rests in the communal house. Photo: Tinh Khong
Six friends aged 26-28, close friends for many years, with similar interests and a weekly exercise routine. Before the race, they set a goal of running at least 20 km a week, and those who failed to complete the race would be fined. "Only by hitting the economy hard will people have the motivation to run," Dinh Tung explained.
The members revealed that the fines will be contributed to the common fund, and will be used for basic expenses during their trip to Hue in April. In addition to running, they plan to visit many historical sites, scenic spots, and enjoy the cuisine. In recent years, when they have time and work, they invite each other to travel and picnic on weekends or holidays.
The group believes that running is a popular and easy sport. With just a good pair of shoes, people can run anywhere, at any time of the day. Not only does it improve the musculoskeletal system and the brain, marathons are also good for the heart, respiratory system, enhance excretory function, and prevent the risk of disease.
The four boys said they will strive to reach sub2:30 for the 21 km distance. Photo: Duc Dong
VnExpress Marathon Hue 2024 is expected to attract 8,000 athletes, and is one of the events that kicks off the summer festival themed "Shining Imperial City". This year, the organizers have adjusted the route, with the starting point of the four distances being Le Duan Street (near Nha Do Gate), and the finishing point being Quang Duc Gate. The race will pass through many famous monuments, bearing the mark of the ancient capital.
Last year, during the three days of the tournament, the tourism industry of Thua Thien Hue province welcomed about 32,500 visitors, with revenue reaching 55.5 billion VND. In 2022, VnExpress Marathon was honored by the province in the top 10 typical cultural and sports events with great impact in the community.
Thi Quan
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