The Danang International Marathon 2024 kicked off in Da Nang, Vietnam, attracting over 9,000 runners, including 1,800 participants from 60 different countries and territories. The event, held on March 22, featured various race distances ranging from 1.5km to a full marathon of 42km. Participants ran along a scenic coastal route passing by iconic landmarks such as the Dragon Bridge and Ngu Hanh Son Mountain.
Among the contenders for the top spots were Kenyan runner Edwin Kiptoo Yebe and former SEA Games champion Pham Thi Binh in the men’s and women’s full marathon categories. The competition commenced with the 1.5km Ronny Dash fun run on March 23, followed by the longer distance races on March 24.
The Vice Director of the Da Nang Department of Culture and Sports, Nguyen Thi Hoi An, highlighted the record number of international athletes participating in the marathon, making it a significant sports and tourism event for Da Nang. The marathon not only promotes physical activity but also showcases Da Nang as a welcoming tourist destination.
Established in 2013, the Danang International Marathon has evolved into one of Vietnam’s most enduring running events. Traditionally held in August, the marathon organizers decided to shift to March for more favorable weather conditions. The event’s growth trajectory aims to attract 20,000 runners by 2027, contributing to Da Nang’s tourism promotion efforts during the off-peak season.
Pulse Active, the organizing body, collaborates with international sports tourism partners from various countries, projecting an influx of over 2,000 international athletes to Da Nang by 2025. This partnership not only enhances the marathon’s global appeal but also boosts the city’s tourism sector.
Other marathons in Vietnam, such as the Dien Bien Phu Marathon 2024, VPBank VnExpress Marathon HCM City Midnight, Quang Binh Discovery Marathon 2024, and Vietnam Ultra Marathon, showcase the country’s growing interest in running events and sports tourism. These marathons attract participants from diverse backgrounds, contributing to the cultural and athletic tapestry of Vietnam.
As the Danang International Marathon continues to gain traction on the global running circuit, it underscores Vietnam’s commitment to promoting sports, tourism, and international engagement. The marathon’s success reflects the country’s ability to host world-class sporting events while showcasing its natural beauty and hospitality to a diverse international audience.
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