Many athletes arrived early to receive their BIBs and familiarize themselves with the course. Among them, Mr. Nguyen Truong Tho (60 years old, residing in Binh Tri Dong ward, Ho Chi Minh City) made an impression by registering to try his luck again in the 21.1 km distance.
Mr. Tho said he is no stranger to major amateur running events across the country. Not long ago, he participated in the Tien Phong National Marathon and Long Distance Championship in Quang Tri . Despite being 60 years old, he still maintains a regular running routine.
According to Mr. Tho, the key to maintaining endurance lies in regular, planned training, both daily and weekly. Mr. Tho also mentioned that he trains in a running group where members maintain a daily exercise routine to stay in shape.
The 60-year-old man took up running in 2018, starting with short distances like 5 km and 10 km, then gradually increasing the difficulty. To date, he has participated in nearly 10 races, with the 21 km distance being the challenge he is currently focusing on conquering.
For this participation, Mr. Tho's goal was quite simple. Having recently completed another race in Ho Chi Minh City, he wasn't focused on achieving a high score but rather aimed to complete the 21.1 km distance in approximately 2 hours.
Young athletes excitedly receive their BIBs.
Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the first Tien Phong Half Marathon - 2025, Nguyen Quynh Hien Minh (11 years old, residing in Cho Quan ward) and her mother traveled a long distance to receive their 5km BIB.
Despite her young age, Hien Minh has already participated in about three to four amateur running events. At the first Tien Phong Half Marathon in 2025, Minh chose the 5km distance, which is appropriate for her age according to the organizers' regulations. “I think I could run 10km, but I’m not old enough yet, so I have to wait. I hope I grow up faster so I can participate in more races and conquer longer distances,” Minh said with a smile.
According to Hien Minh, her best time completing a 5km race was about 45 minutes. For her, each race isn't about achieving a high score, but rather an opportunity to challenge herself and enjoy the fun of exercising.
Minh's running habit started almost a year ago, encouraged by his mother who wanted him to be healthier. However, it was the joy he felt after his first race that made him committed to the sport. Since then, running has not only been a physical activity but also a way for him to relieve stress. "When I feel bored with studying or stressed, I ask my mom if I can go to the park to run, and I feel much better," Minh said.
Besides running, Minh actively participates in most sports at school. According to her, sports help keep the body healthy, boost immunity, and, more importantly, help stabilize and relax the mind. Commenting on the race, Minh said she felt very happy because of the lively atmosphere and the friendliness of the athletes. "Everyone was so lovely, and the organizers were very enthusiastic," Minh said excitedly.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Kim Cuong (36 years old) , mother of Nguyen Quynh Hien Minh, said she started participating in running in 2023 and has since encouraged her daughter to pursue this sport as well. According to her, running helps her daughter develop perseverance, form a habit of daily exercise, and in the long run, provides a healthy sport to relieve stress from studying and life.
After training, Hien Minh has become more active, persistent, and healthy. In fact, she had previously completed the 10km distance in other races, but couldn't register for this one due to age restrictions. "Each race brings me great joy and excitement as I get to run alongside my child," shared Ms. Kim Cuong.
Source: https://tienphong.vn/tu-runner-nhi-den-u60-san-sang-chinh-phuc-tien-phong-half-marathon-2025-post1804285.tpo
Comment (0)