Hanoi Heritage Marathon 2025 attracts over 2,500 international runners

THE HANOI TIMES — The Standard Chartered Hanoi Heritage Marathon 2025, taking place from November 7 to 9, gathers more than 2,500 international runners from nearly 70 countries, almost double the number in 2024.

The event is now the largest international marathon in Vietnam, reaffirming the country’s growing position and appeal on the global sports map.

The opening ceremony was held on November 7 at Quan Ngua Sports Palace, marking the start of a three-day festival of running and community events.

Apart from the main race program, the Marathon Expo has drawn large crowds of athletes, visitors and sports enthusiasts, featuring leading brands in sportswear, healthcare and wellness.

According to the organizer, DHA Vietnam, the race distances have been carefully designed to ensure the best experience for participants.

The 5km and 2.1km races take place on November 8, while the 10km, 21km and 42km distances are scheduled for November 9.

All routes have been measured and verified by experts from the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) to meet international standards.

The start and finish lines are located at Quan Ngua Sports Palace, opening a scenic, nearly 10-kilometer flat route around West Lake, regarded as one of Hanoi’s most beautiful tracks.

The organizer expects the event will allow runners to set new personal bests while promoting the image of Hanoi, a thousand-year-old capital of heritage and modern vitality, to the world.

Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Tri, General Director of DHA Vietnam, said the company aims to make the marathon an internationally recognized event that promotes sport, healthy lifestyles and Hanoi’s image globally.

Under the theme “Break through, go further – Together, we run further,” this year’s marathon promotes the spirit of sportsmanship and sustainability.

The event replaces plastic and nylon with eco-friendly materials and collaborates with the Tobacco Harm Prevention Fund to create an outdoor smoke-free space, becoming Vietnam’s first “smoke-free marathon.”

Nguyen Thuy Hanh, CEO of Standard Chartered Vietnam, said: “We are proud that the marathon has become an international event connecting communities, spreading the spirit of sports and healthy living. It also reflects our long-standing commitment to sustainability and social responsibility in Vietnam over the years.”

Bach Mai Hospital’s efforts for race safety

To ensure the safety of more than 10,000 runners, including 2,500 international participants, the organizing committee continues its partnership with Bach Mai Hospital for the second consecutive year.

Bach Mai is Vietnam’s top general hospital, leading in emergency medicine, resuscitation and pre-hospital care.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vu Van Giap, Deputy Director of Bach Mai Hospital, said the hospital has built a comprehensive medical support system covering the entire race route.

“We have carefully mapped the entire course and set up 21 medical stations at key points to ensure the fastest response to any health emergency. In such cases, every minute and even every second matters. Prompt and precise intervention can do more than safeguard health, it can save lives,” he said.

Nearly 80 doctors and nurses trained in emergency response will be on duty throughout the event. All have received American-standard certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation to handle critical cases such as cardiac or respiratory arrest.

Eight specialized ambulances equipped with ventilators, defibrillators, oxygen systems and modern monitoring devices are also on standby.

At the hospital, ten dedicated beds have been prepared across major centers, including the Cardiovascular Institute, Emergency Center A9, Intensive Care Unit, Poison Control Center and Stroke Center to provide advanced treatment if needed.

“We are working closely with the Hanoi Department of Health and satellite hospitals to ensure swift patient transfer and seamless care in any situation. The medical system is built to international standards, spanning on-site first aid to advanced treatment, forming a closed and efficient care network,” Dr. Giap said.

He stressed that implementing such strict medical safety standards reflects Vietnam’s growing professionalism, comparable to world-renowned marathons like Tokyo or Boston.

“The race is not just a sporting event but an opportunity for Vietnam to showcase itself as a safe, friendly country with a world-class healthcare system,” he said.

Bach Mai Hospital reaffirmed its dedication to delivering a safe, professional and inspiring marathon, promoting healthy lifestyles and strengthening Vietnam’s image as an energetic and modern nation.