Hanoi to host Vietnam's 1st performance-based entry marathon

This event is a major milestone for Vietnam’s running community. Participants hoping to compete in the marathon must meet qualifying times achieved within the past year.

The marathon will offer two race distances: a full marathon (42km) and a half marathon (21km). To qualify for the full marathon, male runners must have completed a previous marathon in under four hours (sub-4), and female runners must have completed one in under five hours (sub-5). Half marathon participants must meet the following time standards: sub-2 hours for men and sub-2:30 hours for women.

Vietnam's Nguyen Van Lai (right) competes against Kenya's Edwin Kiptoo at the VnExpress Marathon Hue 2024 on April 21. Photo by VM

According to Race Director Hai Anh Duong, these qualifying standards apply to all participants, regardless of age or nationality. A representative from the organizing committee explained, "The introduction of performance-based entry standards and distance requirements is designed to create a competitive environment for experienced runners, encourage personal best performances, and further develop the running movement in Vietnam."

While this is a new approach for Vietnam's amateur marathon scene, performance-based entry is a standard practice for major international marathons. For example, the Boston Marathon has strict qualifying times, and other World Marathon Majors such as Berlin, Chicago, London, and New York City implement similar qualifying procedures, often including multiple rounds of selection based on age and gender.

Prospective runners at Volvo All-Star are required to provide verifiable proof of their qualifying performance, either through a race certificate or a link to official race results, which must date back no more than 12 months prior to the ticket sale opening on March 6. The organizing committee will review the submitted documentation and notify successful applicants via email to complete their registration.

The VnExpress Marathon Volvo All-Star 2025 is the ninth event in the VnExpress Marathon series. This edition will be the first to offer a fully closed course, ensuring an uninterrupted race experience for participants. Organizers are also focusing on a flat, spacious, and well-managed course, optimized for ideal race conditions.

The VnExpress Marathon Volvo All-Star is organized by VnExpress and FPT Online Services Joint Stock Company, with Volvo Car Vietnam serving as the Official Partner.