Lê Thị Hằng competes in the women's 100km category of the Việt Nam Mountain Marathon 2023 in Sa Pa last month. — Photo courtesy of Hằng

By Thanh Nga

Despite her small figure, Lê Thị Hằng diligently runs through the streets of Vũng Tàu City every day, driven by her goal of completing a remarkable feat by the end of 2023.

Hằng has been running 42km every day for nearly 300 days as part of her year-long endeavour. Her ultimate aim is to reach 365 days, covering an estimated total distance of 15,330km.

Throughout her 365-day marathon running programme, Hằng is also actively raising money for the "Bright Tomorrow" and "Operation Smile" funds. She hopes that her completion of this challenge will not only demonstrate the value of her efforts but also convey a profound meaning.

"I started running on January 1, 2023, and I plan to finish on December 31, 2023," Hằng told Việt Nam News.

Hằng explained that at the age of 37, she carefully considerd each choice she made. Before undertaking the challenge of completing 42km daily, she gradually tested her limits by running between 10 to 20km each day. Surprisingly, her health steadily improved, and she never experienced any serious injuries or accidents. The inspiration to run 42km daily came from a successful British fundraiser who also completed a year-long marathon.

"I have my own method of maintaining my health and always listen to my body, understanding my own limits. Progressing from one full marathon to the next is a cumulative process for me. Running, to me, is an act of self-love rather than a means of boosting my reputation," Hằng said.

Lê Thị Hằng runs 42km every day. — Photo courtesy of Hằng

Journey

Hằng only began running last year and had never participated in any sports events before the age of 30. Upon receiving advice from a friend, she started running after a period of practising yoga.

Although Hằng started relatively late, her passion quickly ignited. Her performance steadily improved, initially progressing from feeling breathless after just 100 to 300m, then gradually reaching 3km, and eventually running 10km daily. She has become a familiar face at domestic marathons, participating in distances of 42km, 75km, and even 85km.

For Hằng, with each completed race, her love for running grows stronger. She believes that running provides her with a means to better understand herself, lift her spirits, and maintain a strong physique.

However, after sharing her challenge with the running community, various opinions emerged on running forums. While many people expressed admiration for her determination, wellbeing, and audacity, others were concerned about the potential impact of continuous running on her bones and joints, given the limited time for recovery.

Responding to these concerns, Hằng said, "I want to emphasise that undertaking this extraordinary challenge is not about setting records or seeking fame. Many people still consider me crazy and advise me to stop. I am my own coach and doctor, considering every part of my body as a companion to regulate my running rhythm."

Throughout her 365-day marathon running programme, Hằng is also actively fundraising for the Operation Smile fund. — Photo courtesy of Hằng

Since completing the 42km distance each day takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, Hằng usually starts running at 0:30am, and then returns home to rest.

"In this journey, my main challenge lies in overcoming familial and social barriers. Fortunately, living alone and being self-employed allows me to have control over my time," Hằng said.

In reality, to take her challenge, Hằng acknowledged that she had to make sacrifices, such as neglecting aspects of beauty, skincare, and her job, in exchange for spiritual, physical, and community-oriented values. She does not encourage everyone to participate, as it depends on various factors such as health, available time, and the purpose of running.

Nguyễn Văn Long, who ran 2,846km across Việt Nam, said: "Everyone has their own goals. I personally admire Hằng for daring to think and act upon her goals. Regarding health, each person has a different physical condition and strength. Given the number of days she has been running, her body has adapted to the conditions, and her health is hardly affected."

Mè Văn Vinh, who once ran 200km in 37 hours, commented: "I believe there will inevitably be an impact, but the extent of it depends on how she manages her nutrition and rest. Nevertheless, I truly admire her. Limits are established by humans, and human abilities are boundless."

Lê Thị Hằng (2nd left) with her friends in a marathon event. — Photo courtesy of Hằng

Talent

Due to Hằng's consistent training regimen, she achieved an impressive second-place ranking in the women's 100km category of the Việt Nam Mountain Marathon (VMM) 2023 held in September.

The VMM, known as the unique and demanding ultra-terrain running race in Việt Nam, presents runners with intricate routes across the majestic mountains and forests of the north, along with challenges at an altitude of 1,800m. Despite it being her first time participating in the VMM, Hằng surpassed numerous strong contenders to secure the runner-up position.

Notably, Hằng has actively taken part in various domestic running events, amassing several accomplishments. She emerged as the champion in the women's 75km category of the Laan Ultra Trail 2023, claimed first place in the age group division for the 85-kilometre race at the Đà Lạt Ultra Trail 2023, and achieved third place in the Oneway Marathon Vũng Tàu 2023.

Looking ahead, Hằng's next aspiration is to participate in the Ultra Trail Mont Blanc, widely recognised as the world's most competitive ultra-trail race, set to take place in France next year. VNS

Hằng aims to participate in the Ultra Trail Mont Blanc in France next year. Photo courtesy of Hằng