Kenyan runner sets record, wins $4,000 at Vietnam's first performance-based marathon

Muhia, 27, earned over VND105 million (US$4,060) for his performance and has pledged to use the prize money to build a new home for his family in central Kenya.

He crossed the finish line at 5:16 a.m. in Hanoi’s Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, clocking a time of 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 52 seconds - the fastest officially recorded marathon time at any race held in Vietnam.

"I want to use the money to build a better house for my parents back home," Muhia said after the race. His extended family, including his wife, daughter, parents, and siblings, currently live together in a small house in the Kenyan highlands.

Relatively unknown on the Vietnamese racing circuit before the event, Muhia dominated the men's 42km race. He broke away around the sixth kilometer and finished nearly 10 minutes ahead of runner-up Nguyen Van Lai, a veteran Vietnamese athlete.

Kenedy Njogu Muhia reacts after securing victory in the men's 42km event at the VnExpress Marathon Volvo All-Star. Photo by VnExpress Marathon

New race format sets a benchmark

The VM Volvo All-Star introduced a new format in Vietnam's racing landscape by requiring athletes to meet pre-qualification performance standards for both the 21km and 42km distances. The elite-focused entry criteria were designed to elevate the competitive environment and enhance race-day conditions for top performers.

The race featured a fully closed, certified course optimized for speed: wide, flat roads with minimal turns and only one U-turn. Officially measured and certified by the Vietnam Athletics Federation, the course met international standards, making results eligible for events such as the Abbott World Marathon Majors Wanda Age Group World Championships.

Despite warm and humid conditions, Muhia maintained an average pace of 3 minutes and 14 seconds per kilometer. Race analysts suggest that under cooler European weather, such a performance could equate to a finishing time of 2:12 or faster.

"The weather was tough, but the volunteers and crowds helped me stay focused," Muhia said, acknowledging the on-course support and organization.

He currently trains with the Dever Running Club in northern Thailand, alongside other East African athletes. Muhia said he plans to compete in more Southeast Asian races before returning to Kenya. "I feel comfortable competing here," he added. "If there's another chance, I’d love to come back."

Kenedy Njogu Muhia runs behind an electric pace car during the first half of the 42km event at the VnExpress Marathon Volvo All-Star. Photo by VnExpress Marathon

Vietnam's growing appeal to international runners

Muhia's win is part of a broader trend: Vietnam is quickly becoming a destination for elite East African runners, drawn by increasingly professional races and rising prize purses.

The country has witnessed a running boom in recent years, with tens of thousands of amateur participants and dozens of new events launched annually. This growth has attracted attention from athletes in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Uganda, seeking new opportunities beyond traditional global circuits.

While prize money in Vietnam may be lower than that of major international marathons, frequent race opportunities, logistical support, and strong local enthusiasm have made the country an appealing stop for elite competitors.

The VM Volvo All-Star exemplified this shift. Over 2,000 qualified runners participated, supported by elite-level amenities such as electric Volvo transport for lead athletes and a course setup rivaling regional standards.

The event not only spotlighted international talent but also showcased the depth and maturity of Vietnam’s fast-growing running community - signaling that the country is ready to step onto the global racing map.

Hoai Phuong