Foreign visitors share stories of running and enjoying beer in Can Tho

The VnExpress Marathon (VM) Can Tho 2025 drew around 9,000 runners from Vietnam and abroad on the morning of Sept. 14, creating a festive atmosphere along the Hau River. For its debut in the Mekong Delta, VM designed a course crossing 14 bridges and following riverside streets, offering international visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Anthony (FULL NAME?) strikes a military-style salute while running the 21 km distance at VnExpress Marathon (VM) Can Tho 2025. Photo courtesy of VnExpress Marathon

Some foreign runners shared that beyond personal achievements, their most memorable experiences in Can Tho were tied to beer, a drink beloved by locals.

Anthony (FULL NAME?), from Mexico, completed the half marathon (21 km) in 1 hour 48 minutes. He initially ran for fun with his girlfriend and friends but ended up chasing a personal record.

"A day before the race, we spent the whole day drinking beer in Can Tho, and I thought I wouldn’t be able to run fast. But when I saw my friends determined to set their PRs, I pushed myself and was surprised by the result", Anthony said. He jokingly summed it up: "No PR, no beer. But drink beer, and you get a PR."

David Thomson (2nd, R) poses for a photo with his family and friends after completing the VM Can Tho 2025. Photo courtesy of VnExpress Marathon

Unlike Anthony, David Thomson treated beer as a reward after finishing 21 km in the hot and humid weather. At over 60 years old, he crossed the finish line drenched in sweat but beaming as his family cheered.

"The sunrise over the river was wonderful. I felt proud to complete the race, and even happier to share that joy with my family", Thomson said. Immediately after finishing, he declared that what he wanted most was a cold beer.

Thomson was also impressed by the lively atmosphere along the course, enjoying runners dressed as superheroes, Taoist priests, and cartoon characters, which added to the festive vibe.

Runners in cosplay pose at the end of VM Can Tho on the morning of Sept. 14, 2025. Photo courtesy of VnExpress Marathon

"It was fun to run while surrounded by runners in such creative costumes. They made the race less stressful and more entertaining", Thomson said.

Matt Black, 42, from New Zealand, chose Can Tho as his next stop on his running journey in Vietnam. He completed the half marathon in 2 hours 4 minutes-three minutes faster than his time at the VnExpress Marathon Libera Nha Trang last month.

Having lived in Ho Chi Minh City for three years, Matt appreciated Can Tho’s unique charm.

"Starting at 3:30 a.m, the weather was cool. The course led me through city landmarks like Luu Huu Phuoc Park and the city museum. Can Tho is less polluted than Ho Chi Minh City, and life here feels more relaxed", Black said.

Matt Black (front row, L) at VM Can Tho 2025. Photo courtesy of VnExpress Marathon

For Black, running in Can Tho was refreshing thanks to the riverside scenery, bridges connecting both sides of the city, and the enthusiastic support of locals.

"What I liked most was being able to run while feeling the city’s slow, friendly rhythm. Compared to Ho Chi Minh City, this place feels like a smaller, cleaner version", he added.