The Standard Chartered Hà Nội Marathon Heritage Race 2025 will begin on November 9. — Photo courtesy of organisers

Marathon

HÀ NỘI — Runners are looking forward to an unforgettable journey at the Standard Chartered Hà Nội Marathon Heritage Race 2025, with the milestone 10th event in this prestigious global marathon series on November 9.

This year, the organising committee aims to elevate the marathon experience with a fresh start-finish point at the Quần Ngựa Sports Complex, fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and community. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a disabled runner, or part of the vibrant expat community in Việt Nam, everyone is welcome to join. Under the inspiring slogan, "Together, we run further," this marathon encourages participants to push their limits and strive for greatness.

For the first time, runners will enjoy a breathtaking 10km stretch along the picturesque West Lake before heading to the finish line at Quần Ngựa Sports Complex. This flat, scenic route not only offers the perfect opportunity to set personal records but also allows runners to soak in the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Hà Nội.

Runners train for the 2025 season. — Photo courtesy of organisers

The 2025 event will feature four core distance options: 42.195km, 21.0975km, 10km and 5km, plus a special category for children aged 6 to 10, encouraging young athletes to participate.

Nguyễn Trí, CEO of DHA Việt Nam, the marathon's organiser, expressed enthusiasm for the new start-finish location: "This season introduces a unique venue, setting us apart from other major races in Hà Nội. We aim to attract tens of thousands of participants, mirroring the success of other Standard Chartered Marathons around the globe."

Since its inception, the Standard Chartered Hà Nội Heritage Marathon has been dedicated to promoting sportsmanship and community connection. Last year, the race welcomed over 1,300 international runners from more than 50 countries, highlighting Hà Nội’s stunning heritage sites during the most beautiful season. Trí said: "Every runner becomes an ambassador for Việt Nam’s tourism, sharing their unique experiences along the way. We are thrilled to see a surge in international registrations for 2025."

Bill Winters, CEO of Standard Chartered, speaks at the 2025 season announcement ceremony. — Photo courtesy of organisers

Bill Winters, CEO of Standard Chartered, highlighted the importance of the marathon, noting that the 10th race in the globally renowned Standard Chartered Marathon series – the Standard Chartered Hà Nội Marathon – will firmly establish Việt Nam as a premier destination on the global marathon stage, attracting runners from around the world.

Meanwhile, Trịnh Như Quỳnh, head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered Việt Nam, shared: "We're proud to sponsor the Standard Chartered Hà Nội Heritage Marathon, reinforcing our long-term commitment to Việt Nam. This event not only promotes health and community but also supports meaningful social responsibility initiatives."

This year, the organisers are excited to launch the "Collect Old Shoes, Exchange for New Shoes" initiative, which aims to provide clean, used shoes to underprivileged children in remote areas. Following a successful programme in 2024 that donated over 300 pairs of shoes, the initiative has been launched early to gather even more support for those in need.

As a member race of the Abbott World Marathon Majors Age Group Ranking System, the Standard Chartered Hà Nội Heritage Marathon offers qualifying times for entry into some of the world’s largest marathons, including the prestigious Boston Marathon. Participants will also have opportunities to compete in other renowned races within the Standard Chartered Marathon series globally. — VNS

Runners are looking forward to an unforgettable Standard Chartered Hà Nội Marathon Heritage Race 2025. — Photo courtesy of organisers