Marathon

NINH BÌNH — Around 11,000 athletes will gather in Ninh Bình Province on November 15 for the Trang An Marathon 2026.

Entering its sixth season, the race offers participants a unique journey through the heart of the Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex, blending athletic spirit with pride in Vietnamese heritage and culture.

Recognised by the Việt Nam Athletics Federation, the event features four distances, 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km, catering to everyone from beginners and casual runners to elite marathoners.

Dedicated to honouring Southeast Asia’s only UNESCO Dual World Heritage site the event promises a true “Symphony of Nature” for runners, who will make their stride with the ancient capital’s cultural and historical legacy.

All four routes pass iconic landmarks, including the ancient capital of Hoa Lư, the Temple of King Lê Đại Hành, and Bái Đính Pagoda. With flat, open courses and cool late-autumn weather, conditions are ideal for athletes aiming to set new personal records.

Ahead of race day, the expo area will open on November 14 for runners to collect their race kits, browse discounted running gear, connect with fellow athletes, and preview the course maps. Races will kick off on November 15 starting at 4.30 am.

A total prize pool of VNĐ200 million (US$7,800) will be awarded to top finishers, with the 42km champions each taking home VNĐ15 million. An additional VNĐ5 million bonus awaits any runner who breaks the course marathon records, currently standing at 2:38.08 for men and 2:57:14 for women.

The tournament is jointly organised by Vũ Media and the Ninh Bình Department of Culture and Sports, with Phở Đệ Nhất serving as the title sponsor. — VNS