HCMC night run a way to kickstart new year: AIMS expert

Besides well-known landmarks including Nguyen Hue pedestrian street, the City People’s Committee, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Independence Palace, Thu Thiem new urban area impressed the Australian expert with new roads filled with the lily-of-the-valley and coconut water.

“I believe runners will have a lot of fun when running at night,” he said.

Kim Vivian stops in front of the headquarters of the HCMC People’s Committee to record data. Photo by Quynh Tran

Vivian said the VnExpress Marathon HCMC Midnight, the first race of VnExpress Marathon system in 2023, will be favourable to set personal records thanks to its great, flat and good quality routes.

“This will be a fast route, good for PR. Not so many challenges, just a few bridges, but it’s not too difficult. Overall it will be a great running track.”

The 42km and 21km runners will be the first to conquer both Ba Son and Thu Thiem bridges, two symbols of Ho Chi Minh City.

Vivian noted that runners should save their strength during the race as a bridge near the finish line of the 42km race would be a big challenge.

After measured, four distances will get AIMS certification. The athletes of VnExpress Marathon can use their results of the tournament as part of the criteria to participate in the world’s top marathons such as Boston, Chicago, New York, Berlin.

VnExpress Marathon Ho Chi Minh City Midnight will commence at midnight on February 11, expected to attract 10,000 participants. Runners will experience the bustle and hustle of the city through a different lens.

The organizers have nearly completed the preparation. The information about running track, medals, jerseys, and prizes will be announced soon.