Người đẹp dược sĩ vô địch 55km, hot girl Vy Phan than “quá khổ” ở giải Măng Đen Trail
The Vietnamese running community witnessed a weekend of remarkable athletic achievements and spirited participation on March 7, 2026, as two significant events unfolded: the challenging Mang Den LaLa Trail 2026 in the Central Highlands and the culturally rich Con Son, Kiep Bac Half Marathon in Hai Phong. Pharmacist Nguyen Thi Tra Giang, widely known as Giang Nguyen, delivered a standout performance by securing first place in the demanding 55km female category at Mang Den, while fellow notable runner Vy Phan earned a commendable third-place finish in the 75km distance, reflecting on past experiences. Simultaneously, in the northern city of Hai Phong, "hot girl" runner Trinh Le captivated attendees with her vibrant energy during the 21km race, celebrating a successful outing and outlining ambitious plans for future competitions. These events underscore the burgeoning enthusiasm for endurance sports across Vietnam, blending competitive spirit with stunning natural landscapes and profound cultural heritage.
Trailblazing Success at Mang Den LaLa Trail 2026
The Mang Den LaLa Trail 2026, held on Saturday, March 7, in the picturesque town of Mang Den, Kon Plong district, Quang Ngai province, served as a powerful testament to the growing prowess of Vietnamese trail runners. This event, officially recognized and indexed by the prestigious Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) system, offered participants a unique opportunity to earn UTMB Index points, crucial for qualification and seeding in major international ultra-trail races. Its inclusion in the UTMB system highlights Mang Den’s rising profile on the global trail running map, attracting both seasoned ultra-runners and aspiring athletes.
A UTMB-Indexed Challenge Amidst Pristine Wilderness
Mang Den, often dubbed the "green lung" of the Central Highlands, provided a breathtaking yet formidable backdrop for the race. Runners navigated through diverse and rugged terrain, encompassing dense forests, cascading waterfalls, winding mountain paths, and challenging ascents and descents. The course, with distances spanning 10km, 25km, 55km, 75km, and 100km, was meticulously designed to push physical and mental limits while allowing participants to immerse themselves in the region’s untouched, wild beauty. The high-altitude environment, combined with technical trails, demanded exceptional physical conditioning, strategic pacing, and mental fortitude from all competitors. The "LaLa" aspect of the event’s name often refers to local cultural elements or the joyful, free spirit associated with running in such an environment, further enhancing its unique appeal. This year’s edition saw nearly 2,000 runners from across Vietnam and several international participants, signifying a growing interest in adventure sports that connect athletes with nature.
Pharmacist Giang Nguyen’s Dominant Victory
Among the remarkable athletes competing, Nguyen Thi Tra Giang, known affectionately as Giang Nguyen, emerged as a compelling figure. A pharmacist by profession, Giang Nguyen, hailing from Ha Tinh, possesses a petite stature (1m50) but an indomitable spirit. Her journey into competitive running began in 2020, and since then, she has consistently made headlines for her outstanding performances in marathons nationwide. Her ability to balance a demanding career in healthcare with the rigorous training required for ultra-running speaks volumes about her discipline and passion.
At the Mang Den LaLa Trail 2026, Giang Nguyen’s performance in the 55km female category was nothing short of spectacular. Demonstrating an impressive blend of speed and endurance, she crossed the finish line in a commanding 7 hours, 38 minutes, and 34 seconds, securing the top spot. Her victory was particularly notable as she finished approximately 18 minutes ahead of the second-place finisher, Tran Thi Minh Thuy, who completed the course in 7 hours, 46 minutes, and 3 seconds. Adding to the intrigue of her achievement, Giang Nguyen reportedly arrived for check-in just hours before the race began, nearly half a night prior, a testament to her experience and perhaps a calm confidence in her preparation, despite the tight schedule. Her victory not only solidified her reputation as a leading female trail runner in Vietnam but also served as an inspiration, showcasing that dedication can overcome perceived physical limitations.
Vy Phan’s Reflective Third-Place Finish
Another prominent figure in the running community, Vy Phan, a well-known personality often referred to as a "hot girl" runner, also made her mark at the Mang Den LaLa Trail. Competing in the formidable 75km category, Vy Phan showcased incredible resilience and endurance, ultimately securing a respectable third-place finish with a time of 13 hours and 58 minutes. Her performance highlighted the mental and physical demands of ultra-distances, where every step is a battle against fatigue and self-doubt.
Following her challenging race, Vy Phan shared a poignant reflection, stating that she "dares not repeat due to the past." This statement, while brief, carries significant weight and offers insight into the profound experiences often encountered in ultra-endurance sports. It can be logically inferred that her remark stems from a deep contemplation of previous ultra-marathons, where she might have faced extreme physical distress, injury, or the immense mental burden of pushing beyond perceived limits. It suggests a newfound respect for the distance and a more cautious approach to future challenges, emphasizing the importance of listening to one’s body and learning from prior exertions. This candid admission resonates with many ultra-runners who understand the fine line between pushing boundaries and risking long-term well-being. It underscores the psychological aspect of these races, where the experience itself can be as impactful as the result.
Vietnamese Athletes Asserting Dominance
The Mang Den LaLa Trail 2026 also underscored the impressive depth of talent within the Vietnamese running scene. While international participants were present, the top positions across various categories were predominantly claimed by local athletes. In the men’s 100km race, Dao Quang Cuong and Do Trung Kien shared an inspiring moment, crossing the finish line hand-in-hand to claim a joint first place with a time of 15 hours, 51 minutes, and 29 seconds. This display of camaraderie amidst intense competition resonated strongly with spectators and fellow runners. In the women’s 100km category, Nguyen Thi Nguyet secured a dominant victory, finishing in 16 hours, 42 minutes, and 23 seconds. The consistent success of Vietnamese runners across these ultra-distances signals a strong and rapidly developing endurance sports culture within the country, fueled by dedicated training, access to diverse terrains, and a growing community support system.
"Journey to World Heritage" Half Marathon in Hai Phong
On the same eventful day, March 7, 2026, the northern city of Hai Phong hosted the "Con Son, Kiep Bac – Journey to World Heritage" Half Marathon. This event uniquely blended athletic competition with a profound appreciation for Vietnam’s rich history and cultural heritage, drawing nearly 1,000 runners to its scenic and historically significant course.
Blending Sport with Cultural Heritage
The Con Son and Kiep Bac complex, located in Chi Linh, Hai Duong province (though the race was in Hai Phong, implying a connection or a run passing through areas linked to this heritage), holds immense historical and spiritual importance for Vietnam. Con Son is famous for its association with the revered national hero Nguyen Trai, a brilliant strategist, poet, and scholar of the 15th century. Kiep Bac is renowned as the military base of Tran Hung Dao, the legendary general who repelled Mongol invasions in the 13th century. The half marathon’s theme, "Journey to World Heritage," aimed to celebrate these sites, currently under consideration for UNESCO World Heritage status, and to foster a deeper connection between participants and the nation’s storied past. The course, designed to be accessible yet engaging, offered runners picturesque views while traversing paths steeped in history, providing a unique blend of physical challenge and cultural immersion. The event served as a powerful platform to promote tourism to these heritage sites while encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle among the public.
Trinh Le’s Energetic Performance and Future Aspirations
Among the enthusiastic participants in the Con Son, Kiep Bac Half Marathon was Trinh Le, a prominent "hot girl" runner celebrated for her dynamic presence and commitment to fitness. Known for her well-toned physique, a result of consistent gym training and a disciplined approach to sports, Trinh Le radiated positive energy throughout the 21km female category. Her vibrant smile and energetic stride captivated onlookers, embodying the spirit of joy and determination that running can inspire.
Following her successful race, Trinh Le shared her positive experience, highlighting favorable conditions and her readiness for the challenge. "The weather was great today," she remarked. "Thanks to consistent training even during Tet, my stamina was ensured. The 6:20 AM start time meant I didn’t have to wake up too early like for some other races. I’m satisfied with my performance today and look forward to two upcoming races: Tay Ho Marathon 2026 and Hanoi Trail in April." Her statement reflects a professional approach to her running career, meticulously planning her schedule and maintaining peak physical condition even during festive periods. Trinh Le’s active engagement and positive outlook serve as an inspiration, particularly to younger generations, showcasing how dedication to fitness can be integrated with a vibrant public persona, further popularizing running as a lifestyle choice. Her forward-looking attitude toward the Tay Ho Marathon and Hanoi Trail indicates a relentless pursuit of new challenges and continuous improvement, reinforcing her role as an influential figure in the Vietnamese fitness landscape.
The Broader Impact: Vietnam’s Flourishing Running Scene
The simultaneous success of the Mang Den LaLa Trail and the Con Son, Kiep Bac Half Marathon on March 7, 2026, collectively paints a vivid picture of Vietnam’s rapidly evolving and flourishing running scene. These events are not merely isolated competitions but integral components of a larger movement that is reshaping national attitudes towards health, fitness, and tourism.
Economic and Tourism Benefits
The hosting of such large-scale running events brings significant economic and tourism benefits to the host regions. Mang Den, a relatively emerging tourist destination, benefits immensely from the influx of runners, their support teams, and spectators. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, experience a boost in revenue. Similarly, in Hai Phong, the Con Son, Kiep Bac Half Marathon draws attention to the region’s rich cultural heritage, encouraging visitors to explore historical sites and local attractions, thereby stimulating the regional economy. These events often lead to infrastructure improvements and enhanced local services, leaving a lasting positive impact on the community. The increasing number of international participants also positions Vietnam as an attractive destination for sports tourism, showcasing its natural beauty and cultural depth to a global audience.
Promoting Health and Active Lifestyles
Beyond the economic advantages, these races play a crucial role in promoting public health and active lifestyles across Vietnam. The visibility of events like Mang Den LaLa Trail and the Con Son, Kiep Bac Half Marathon, coupled with the inspiring stories of athletes like Giang Nguyen, Vy Phan, and Trinh Le, motivates individuals from all walks of life to engage in physical activity. The accessibility of running as a sport, requiring minimal equipment, makes it an ideal entry point for many looking to improve their well-being. The growth of running clubs, training groups, and community-led initiatives further fosters a culture of fitness, contributing to a healthier and more active populace nationwide.
A Testament to Endurance and National Spirit
The dominance of Vietnamese runners in both local and international-indexed events like the Mang Den LaLa Trail speaks volumes about the talent and dedication present within the country. It symbolizes a national spirit of endurance, resilience, and a growing pride in athletic achievement. The blend of challenging terrain and cultural immersion offered by these races creates unique experiences that resonate deeply with participants. As Vietnam continues to embrace and host more diverse and prestigious running events, the future of endurance sports in the nation appears exceptionally bright, promising further growth, international recognition, and continued inspiration for generations to come.
