Miss Universe Vietnam runner-up says every race makes her stronger

Tien will take part in the DNSE Aquaman Vietnam 2023 on Oct. 29 in Phan Thiet, making it her first time competing in a biathlon.

She will also engage in various activities with athletes, sharing her journey of overcoming appearance insecurities and pursuing her beauty dream.

Why did you decide to participate in the DNSE Aquaman Vietnam 2023?

Having passion for sports and healthcare, I was really excited when I received the invitation from the DNSE Aquaman Vietnam organizers. This was a meaningful event for those who love aquathlon.

Swimming-running tournaments are not common in Vietnam. By joining the DNSE Aquaman Vietnam, I hope to promote this sport to the community, especially sports enthusiasts, so they can give it a try.

Huynh Pham Thuy Tien, Miss Universe Vietnam 2022's second runner-up. Photo courtesy of Huynh Pham Thuy Tien

Aquaman Vietnam 2023 carries the message "The Racetrack of Dreams." What is your dream?

I hope to spread the aspirations of 1,500 athletes far and wide. Aquaman Vietnam 2023 gives me an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the community and society. With my influence, I hope to support athletes in their pursuit of achieving their dreams through connections and shared activities.

By aligning myself with athletes and actively participating in hands-on activities, I wish to spread positive messages about sports and well-being awareness.

What do sports, especially swimming and running, mean to you?

I am fortunate to have the opportunity to engage in various sports activities, and they have nurtured and developed my passion for sports.

Running and swimming have become a part of my daily routine due to their convenience, simplicity, and minimal equipment requirements.

These activities help build perseverance and endurance and cultivate long-term habits for maintaining good health.

For me, achieving a work-life balance is of utmost importance. In order to excel in my job and maintain strong mental health, I make it a point to spend at least 30 minutes each day exercising. The timing is flexible, it can be in the morning, afternoon, or evening, depending on my work schedule.

What is your secret to staying fit and maintaining your endurance?

In addition to following a regular training schedule, I pay special attention to nutrition. I often consume clean food, detoxing my body with juices, fruit and vegetable smoothies...

Also, being active in sports have become important goals in my life.

I participate in running races to immerse myself in the sports atmosphere and nurture motivation and excitement about sports. And this time, I have decided to challenge myself in a completely new race, Aquaman Vietnam - my first biathlon race. In the relay competition, I will take on the running part.

Huynh Pham Thuy Tien poses with 10 km medal in VnExpress Marathon Quy Nhon 2023. Photo courtesy of Huynh Pham Thuy Tien

-Do you plan to run 21 km or 42 km in the future?

I hope so. Currently, running is my strength, and this is the reason why I join Aquaman Vietnam 2023.

With Aquaman Vietnam, I wish to challenge myself, to test my limits, and to assess my health. First, I will spend time practicing and looking for a "good teammate" to compete together in the relay category. Phan Thiet’s scenery and weather also motivate me to be excited for the upcoming tournament.

What are your impressions of the scenery and weather in the host city?

I am truly impressed by the exquisite scenery, nature, and people here. Upon arriving in Phan Thiet to prepare for the competition, I was captivated by the sea, expansive white sand beaches, and the vast blue sky. I also felt connected to the local people thanks to their warm-heartedness and hospitality.

I believe that this tournament will leave a lasting impression not only due to its professional organization but also thanks to the breathtaking landscape and the kindness of Phan Thiet people.

How are you feeling ahead of the tournament?

I am fully ready. I am thrilled to be part of the exhilarating sports atmosphere and aim to successfully complete the registered distance.

The first swimming and running biathlon tournament in Vietnam will take place at NovaWorld Phan Thiet. The tournament features four categories: Aquakid for children 6 to 10 years old (200 m swim and 1 km run); Sprint Aqua (500 m swim, 5 km run); Half Aqua (1 km swim, 10 km run).

The longest distance is Aquaman (2 km swim and 21 km run). This is the only event that has both individual competition and relay format.