A group of close friends raced the Hue marathon because the medal was 'too beautiful'

Thua Thien - Hue: Duy Duong and Khanh Thien's group of six close friends are determined to conquer the VnExpress Marathon Hue 2024 for the eye-catching medal.

Four young people living and working in Hanoi joined the crowd at the Expo area in Nghênh Lương Đình to receive their race kits. Two female members registered for the 5km race, while the four men chose their preferred 21km distance. The group spoke happily and excitedly about competing together in their second marathon. Previously, they had competed together in a race held in Tràng An, Ninh Bình.

"Our group wants to create more unforgettable memories in Hue, not focusing too much on achievements," Cam Tu said. Meanwhile, Duy Duong and the three boys 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 design inspired by the Hue Imperial Citadel viewed from above – a place with a vibrant landscape resembling a "coiling dragon and sitting tiger."

Member Duy Duong said: "The group encouraged each other not to give up because the VnExpress Marathon Hue 2024 medal is so eye-catching and impressive. We must definitely bring the medal home and proudly display it in the most visible spot. I like the screen – an inseparable architectural feature of the garden house – and the matching plaque that becomes the frame for the medal."

A group of young people received their bibs on the afternoon of April 19th. From left to right: Tien Dung, Khanh Thien, Cam Tu, Dinh Tung, Duy Duong. Another member of the group is resting in the pavilion. Photo: Tinh Khong

Six friends, aged 26-28, who have been close for many years, share a common interest and maintain a weekly exercise routine. Before the race, they set a goal of running at least 20 km a week; anyone who fails to do so will be fined. "A strong financial incentive is what motivates people to run," Đình Tùng explained.

The members revealed that the fines would be contributed to a common fund to cover basic expenses for their trip to Hue in April. Besides racing, they plan to visit many historical sites and scenic spots, and enjoy the local cuisine. In recent years, whenever they can arrange their time and work schedules, they often get together for trips and outings every weekend or holiday.

The group believes that running is an accessible and easy-to-do sport. With just a good pair of shoes, people can run anywhere, at any time of day. Not only does it improve the muscular, skeletal, and brain systems, but marathon running is also good for the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, enhances excretory function, and helps prevent disease.

The four boys said they would strive to achieve a sub-2:30 finish in the 21km race. Photo: Duc Dong

The VnExpress Marathon Hue 2024 is expected to attract 8,000 athletes and is one of the events kicking off the summer festival themed "The Shining Imperial City". This year, the organizers have adjusted the route, with the starting point for all four distances being Le Duan Street (near Nha Do Gate) and the finish line at Quang Duc Gate. The race route will pass through many famous historical sites, bearing the distinctive mark of the ancient capital.

Last year, during the three days of the event, Thua Thien Hue province's tourism industry welcomed approximately 32,500 visitors, generating revenue of 55.5 billion VND. In 2022, the VnExpress Marathon was honored by the province as one of the top 10 outstanding cultural and sporting events with a significant impact on the community.

Thi Quân

Source: https://vnexpress.net/nhom-ban-than-dua-marathon-hue-vi-huy-chuong-qua-dep-4736221.html