The Read Marathon Ha Long event, offering distances from 5km to a full marathon, has been strategically rescheduled to late May this year. The organizers moved the event from its traditional September date to take advantage of the region’s favorable weather conditions and to boost summer tourism activity.
Participants will follow a scenic course, running along coastal roads with sweeping views of Ha Long Bay’s iconic limestone karsts. In addition to the main races, a complimentary 700-meter fun run with child-friendly obstacles will be available for young participants aged 6 to 10, encouraging youth fitness and family participation.
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Runners at the starting line during the 2024 event in Ha Long. Photo by Read Marathon |
Now in its fourth iteration, the annual run has become a key event in Quang Ninh Province’s calendar. Previous editions consistently attracted around 10,000 registered runners, with tens of thousands of family members and supporters boosting local hospitality and services. The expected participation of 12,000 runners this year sets a new record for the event.
This run is also a central component of Quang Ninh’s broader summer tourism initiative, which includes over 70 cultural, sporting, and entertainment events held in May and June. Visitors during this period can also enjoy highlights like the Ha Long Carnival, various ethnic cultural festivals, and concerts. A notable addition is the recently launched tour route exploring Bai Tu Long Bay, currently available free of charge.
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Participants run along the scenic bayfront course. Photo by Read Marathon |
Bai Tu Long Bay, designated as an ASEAN Heritage Park, offers visitors access to pristine islands and cave systems within its protected national park boundaries.
Provincial authorities are targeting 5.3 million visitors to Quang Ninh during the peak season, with a revenue target exceeding VND14 trillion (US$538 million). This highlights the importance of large-scale events like the Ha Long marathon in achieving these tourism goals.
Currently, organizers have opened ticket sales for the late registration phase. Bib prices are VND770,000 ($29.59) for the 5km distance, VND960,000 ($36.89) for 10km, VND1.25 million ($48.04) for 21km, and VND1.49 million ($57.26) for the 42km distance. Group registration discounts are also available: groups of 20-50 receive a 5% discount, 51-100 get 10%, 101-500 receive 15%, and groups of 501-1,000 are eligible for a 20% discount. Groups larger than 1,000 athletes receive a 25% discount. Registration for the VM Ha Long event can be completed here
Hoai Phuong
