Among hundreds of marathon events flourishing across Vietnam, some captivate runners with sparkling city skylines, while others test limits with rugged mountain peaks. Yet, one special race holds a truly cherished place in my heart—an event where every breath and stride beats in harmony with untouched nature: HDBank Green Marathon.
The year 2026 marks the 5th milestone season of this green marathon in Can Gio. Looking back over five years of dedicated development, what endures most is not just the shining finisher medals around runners' necks, but the profound green philosophy that has taken root in our community's mindset and daily actions.
1. Green Can Gio – Where Athletic Passion Harmonizes with Nature
Located only 50 kilometers from bustling downtown Ho Chi Minh City, the Can Gio Mangrove Forest was designated as Vietnam’s first UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2000. It stands as the vital "Green Lung" regulating air quality, buffering storm surges, and cooling the Southern metropolis.
Running through the Can Gio Marathon in the early dawn is a deeply rejuvenating experience. As morning mist floats through dense mangrove canopies and ocean waves whisper in the distance, every inhalation is filled with crisp, oxygen-rich air. The serenity and pristine wilderness provide mental clarity and vitality that no concrete urban course can match.
2. "Green" Is Not Just a Catchphrase – It Is Meaningful Action
What I consistently admire about the HDBank Green Marathon is the authenticity of its founding core philosophy:
*"Green in mindset, Green in action, and Green in every choice towards sustainable development."*
Throughout five years, the organizers and tens of thousands of participants have transformed this vision into tangible environmental achievements:
Mangrove Afforestation: Thousands of native mangrove saplings have been hand-planted by runners, organizers, and volunteers across alluvial coastal mudflats after each race weekend.
Coastal Cleanup Campaigns: Collecting, segregating, and recycling tons of marine plastic debris along the Can Gio coastline to restore pristine shorelines.
Eco-Friendly Race Operations: Water stations prioritize biodegradable paper cups while actively encouraging runners to carry reusable hydration flasks to eliminate single-use plastics.
Community Social Welfare: Awarding educational scholarships to underprivileged students and providing welfare packages to local fishing families.
3. Becoming a Green Ambassador on the Course
Endurance running teaches us discipline, perseverance, and profound respect. At the Green Marathon, that respect extends naturally to every tree, coastal wave, and local community member. We run not only to conquer our individual distances, but to broadcast an urgent, uplifting message: Protect and nurture our planet for generations to come.
Supervised by the HCMC Department of Culture and Sports and jointly produced by Unique Co., Ltd. and the HCMC Athletics Federation, the tournament seamlessly integrates with the Nghinh Ong Festival (National Intangible Cultural Heritage), offering an unparalleled weekend of sports, culture, and ecology.
4. A Personal Call to the Running Community
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🍀 HDBank Green Marathon: Green in name. Green in every stride. Green in the values we share. 🍀
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For this 5th edition, pack your favorite running shoes, bring your passion, and lace up with eco-consciousness to create unforgettable memories in Can Gio.
👉 Join the movement at Green Can Gio Marathon and EnjoySport today to be part of this meaningful green journey!
