Cantho Newspaper – After three successful editions, the Can Tho Heritage Marathon 2024 will officially take place at Song Hau Park on the morning of December 22, 2024. More than 9,000 runners from across Vietnam and abroad have registered to compete, promising a vibrant and exciting event in Can Tho.
Not just a major sporting event but also a unique cultural landmark, the marathon aims to position Can Tho as a favorite destination for the running community and gradually establish itself on the global marathon map. The event contributes to sustainable and effective tourism development.
This year’s race features four distances: 5km, 10km, Half Marathon (21.1km) and Full Marathon (42.195km).
The race route is uniquely designed to challenge runners while allowing them to explore the cultural and historical beauty of Tay Do (Can Tho’s historical name).
A New Highlight on the Race Route
A significant highlight this year is the inclusion of Binh Thuy District in the race route for the first time. This new section takes runners along lush, peaceful canal-side roads, free from traffic intersections.
Along the way, they will pass by ancient temples, historic pagodas, and travel along Lo Vong Cung—once a fierce battlefield during the resistance war, now recognized as a national historical site. This route not only allows athletes to witness the resilience of the Southwestern Vietnamese people but also showcases Can Tho’s modernization and development.
Moreover, runners will pass by some of Tay Do’s most iconic landmarks, including:Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery, My Khanh Tourist Village and Cai Rang Floating Market…
A Well-Prepared Event with Enhanced Runner Support
The Song Hau Park Square, serving as both the starting point and finish line, has been chosen as the central venue for this event. Known for hosting various entertainment and cultural activities, the park will play a key role in promoting the image and hospitality of Can Tho City.
In addition to ensuring a standardized race route, the organizing committee has made significant investments in race operations to offer the best possible experience for runners. Throughout the course, numerous water stations, medical points, and mobile restrooms will be strategically placed. Hundreds of volunteers will be present to ensure safety and provide assistance during the event.
A Professionally Organized Race with Cultural Significance
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tri, CEO of DHA Vietnam—the organizing unit of the Heritage Race system, which includes the Can Tho Heritage International Marathon—shared:
“Hosting a race for more than 9,000 runners across multiple scenic landmarks in the Mekong Delta is no small challenge. However, with strong collaboration between the organizers, local authorities, and the experience gained from successfully organizing the Standard Chartered Hanoi Heritage Marathon (which hosted 18,000 runners), we are confident that we are fully prepared to deliver a safe, professional, and memorable race for all participants.”
This marathon is more than just a sporting event—it is also an opportunity to promote the unique culture and beauty of the Mekong Delta to both local and international visitors.
This year, the cultural essence of Can Tho is prominently reflected in the race shirts designed for participants. Inspired by the symbol of rice—a familiar and iconic image of the region—the event shirt and finisher shirts blend aesthetic appeal with deep cultural significance:
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The event shirt is green, symbolizing the region’s lush rice fields.
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The finisher shirts (for half marathon and full marathon runners) are bold red, representing determination and pride.
With an exciting race route, enhanced event logistics, and deep cultural symbolism, the Can Tho Heritage International Marathon 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience for all participants.
Source: Cantho Online
