74-year-old Vietnamese American completes 42 km race at VM Hue

“The poetic running track and the ideal weather were favorable for athletes to improve their performance and go beyond their own limits,” Binh said.

Binh, who used to be a lawyer in Vietnam before moving to the U.S. 40 years ago, returned to his homeland for the VnExpress Marathon Imperial Hue. On the race day, his family were at the finish line cheering for him.

Dang Cong Binh holds his medal after finishing the VM Hue’s 42-km distance, April 16, 2023. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

During the 42 km route, some runners asked him to take pictures as they were impressed with a white-haired, elder runner competing in full marathon.

Binh said he maintained moderate pace in order to enjoy the landscape and the morning air. For the last 20 km, he acted as a pacer for runner Nguyen Trung Hieu who he met by chance. The two kept talking along the route, and supported each other for the rest of the race.

“We finished in 4 hours and 46 minutes. Hieu was very happy to set a new personal record,” Binh said, adding that he loves to make friends with those who share common interests with him.

Dang Cong Binh and Nguyen Trung Hieu hold hands to reach VM Hue finish line. Photo by VnExpress/Duc Dong

VnExpress Marathon Hue was Binh’s 45th race overall. He has participated in the world’s most prestigious races like Tokyo Marathon (Japan), Boston Marathon (U.S.), Virgin Money London Marathon (England), BMW Berlin Marathon (Germany), Bank of America Chicago Marathon (U.S.), and TCS New York City Marathon (U.S.).

Dang Cong Binh at the Tokyo Marathon in March 2023 and his tokens and medals from various marathons. Photos courtesy of Dang Cong Binh

For many years, Ly Ai Linh, Binh’s wife, accompanied him in all competitions to support him.

“I wish him a happy and healthy life, that he gets to enjoy his passion for running,” she said.

Dang Cong Binh takes photo with his family after the VM Hue race. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran