Da Nang International Marathon 2024: A Spectacular Showcase of Athletic Prowess

The Da Nang International Marathon (DNIM) 2024, co-organized by the Da Nang Department of Culture and Sports and Pulse Active Company, kicked off on a vibrant Sunday morning at East Sea Park. This year’s marathon marked its 11th edition, showcasing the city as a premier destination for international sporting events and appealing to both local and global running enthusiasts.

This year’s event garnered unprecedented participation, with over 9,000 runners competing across multiple distances, including a 42 km full marathon, a 21 km half marathon, a 10 km run, and a 5 km race. The event also included a 1.5 km Ronny Dash specifically aimed at children ages 3 to 10, fostering a spirit of fitness among younger generations. Notably, approximately 1,800 international athletes from 57 countries and territories participated in this year’s marathon, marking a significant 46% increase compared to 2023.

The enthusiasm surrounding the DNIM has established it as a standout event in the region. The marathon’s track, often described as the most beautiful running track in ASEAN, has received accolades for meeting the rigorous standards set by the Association of International Marathons (AIMS) and the World Athletics Federation. Runners were treated to breathtaking views as they traversed iconic landmarks including the Dragon Bridge and the Marble Mountains, allowing them to immerse themselves in the captivating scenery of Da Nang.

Among the participants were accomplished athletes known as Dragon Runners, with about 100 athletes registered in this special category. The competitive atmosphere was electric, drawing attention not only from the participants but also from spectators who came to cheer them on. Runners experienced the joy of engaging with local culture, enjoying friendly interactions with residents, and tasting the region’s renowned cuisine throughout the event.

The results of the races were as thrilling as the event itself. In the men’s 42 km full marathon, Kiptoo Edwin from Kenya secured a remarkable victory, finishing in a time of 2 hours, 37 minutes, and 6 seconds. Vietnamese runners Huynh Anh Khoi and Nguyen Dac Hung impressed with their strong performances, taking second and third places with times of 2 hours, 37 minutes, and 13 seconds, and 2 hours, 43 minutes, and 51 seconds, respectively.

On the women’s side, Pham Thi Binh, affectionately dubbed the “barefoot queen” of Vietnamese athletics, claimed the championship in the 42 km event with a time of 3 hours, 10 minutes, and 32 seconds. She was closely followed by Nguyen Thi Thanh Phuc, who is celebrated as the “walking queen,” and Nguyen Thi Ngot, finishing in 3 hours, 17 minutes, and 3 hours, 26 minutes, and 46 seconds respectively.

The half marathon also saw fierce competition, with Manimaran Sanjay from Malaysia taking the men’s title in 1 hour, 13 minutes, and 28 seconds, while Vietnamese runner Thai Thi Kim Ngan won the women’s event in 1 hour, 30 minutes, and 47 seconds. In shorter distances, German runner Hirrle Simon dominated the 10 km race, finishing in 36 minutes and 10 seconds. At the same time, Nguyen Khanh Ly secured the women’s title in the same distance. In the 5 km category, Hap Tien Canh and Bui Thi Ngan were crowned champions for the men’s and women’s races respectively.

As DNIM continues to grow, it has solidified its position as an essential part of the global marathon calendar, attracting athletes from various backgrounds and experiences. The undeniable charm of Da Nang, combined with its stunning landscapes and supportive local community, ensures that participants leave with unforgettable memories. As we look forward to future editions, it’s clear that the Da Nang International Marathon will continue to inspire a love for running and cultivate a vibrant athletic culture.

Reporting by PHI NONG – Translating by M.DUNG