The VM2019, which will take place in Quy Nhon, capital of the central province of Binh Dinh, on June 9, will have 50 prizes in cash.
They include two prizes of VND75 million ($3,230) each for the male and female winners of the 42-km (26-mile) section, the longest distance of the marathon.
Other distances are five, 10 and 21 kilometers.
Aside from competing in the race, participants will also have chances to win various prizes including watches, running shoes and gift certificates through a lucky draw of their chip tag number.
So far, the race has attracted more than 3,500 applicants and the organizers hope that the number will go up to 5,000 this year.
VM 2019 is the only marathon in Vietnam that sets its course through the Thi Nai (2.5 kilometers) sea overpass.
This is also a charity run. Organizers will donate 10 percent of the ticket sales proceeds to VnExpress’ Hope Foundation, which works to improve learning facilities for disadvantaged students.
The marathon’s goal is also to spread the sporting spirit and strengthen the sense of community.
For safety reasons, there will be a rehydration spot every two kilometers on the course and five mist-spray spots for runners to cool down in the hot summer weather. Medical centers and restrooms will also be set up.
The Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) last month granted the International Measurement certificate for the VnExpress Marathon 2019 track.
This means that the annual race will also be certified as a standard running track by the International Association of Athletics Federations, under an agreement between the two agencies.
The certificate will be valid for five years or until significant changes are made to the track.
Runners can use their record in VnExpress Marathon to sign up for bigger events like Boston Marathon, Chicago Marathon or New York City Marathon.
Sign up for VM 2019 here.