Runner U70 invited 14 family members to run marathon

In Thua Thien - Hue, Mr. Dang Van Tam (62 years old, from Da Nang ) invited 14 members, including his brothers, sisters, and nephews, to participate in the VnExpress Marathon Hue 2024, registering for all distances.

This is the third time Dang Van Tam, currently working at a battery company in Da Nang, has raced in Hue. He expressed his excitement as he held his 21km bib, eagerly anticipating the moment of conquering the race with thousands of other runners this weekend. For him, Hue is one of the ideal destinations, with its open, tree-lined routes. Delicious food and friendly people are also among the attractions.

Mr. Tâm arrived at Nghênh Lương Đình to receive his bib on the afternoon of April 19th. The remaining 13 members will arrive tonight and tomorrow morning. Photo: Tịnh Không

The greatest happiness for Mr. Dang Tam is having the companionship of his extended family of 14 people, including his wife Xuan Phuong. Mr. Tam said that he took advantage of the opportunity to go to Hue a day early to do some preliminary work, and the other members will be present in the ancient capital on the evening of April 19th and the morning of April 20th.

Accordingly, Mr. Tam and another person registered for the 21 km race, while Ms. Xuan Phuong and six young children (under 15) competed in the 5 km race. Two other members ran 42 km, and the remaining three chose the 10 km. Previously, the whole family had participated together in dozens of races within the VnExpress Marathon system in Ho Chi Minh City, Quy Nhon, Ha Long, Nha Trang, Hanoi , and Hai Phong.

"It was fun, but a bit expensive," said Mr. Dang Van Tam, laughing heartily. He explained that the cost of buying bibs, transportation, hotels, and food for all 14 people was quite high. "Even so, we decided to spend the money because running a marathon improves health, strengthens bonds, and makes everyone love each other more."

Mr. Tam's extended family went racing together in Nha Trang and Quy Nhon last year. Photo: Provided by the family.

Personally, Mr. Tam expects to complete the 21 km race in two hours and 35 minutes. Previously, his best time was two hours and 40 minutes, set in a race in Da Nang.

Every week, Mr. Tam trains four times, running 5-10 kilometers each time. He focuses on his diet, limiting both fat and carbohydrates, and combines it with adequate rest. "After training two times, I rest one day to allow my body to recover," Mr. Tam said.

Similarly, other members also learned from Mr. Tam and trained every day. Mr. Tam's family's passion for running also positively influenced his colleagues. Van Khanh (38 years old, originally from Hue) said that he had never exercised before, but was moved when he saw that at over 60 years old, Mr. Tam was still diligently competing in marathons.

"I plan to dedicate time to training for the VnExpress Marathon Da Nang 2024 in July," Van Khanh said.

Mr. and Mrs. Tâm took a selfie after the VnExpress Marathon Hue last year. Photo: Provided by the couple.

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/runner-u70-ru-14-thanh-vien-gia-dinh-thi-marathon-4736257.html