Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2026: When 5,300 runners conquer Sa Pa peaks amid record rain

On the morning of September 17, in Sa Pa town, Lao Cai province, the starting gun echoed for Vietnam's largest ultra-trail running event in 2026 — the Vietnam Mountain Marathon (VMM) 2026. This was no ordinary race. With distances of 100 miles (161 km) and 100 km, sawtooth terrain (constantly ascending and descending like serrated teeth), and weather conditions recognized as the harshest in 14 years of organization, VMM 2026 attracted over 5,300 athletes from 54 countries and territories. Notably, VMM 2026 officially joined the World Trail Majors system — one of the most prestigious ultra-trail circuits globally. This marks the first time a Vietnamese running event has been recognized at this level, opening opportunities for Sa Pa to become an international trail running destination while raising questions about what truly lies behind the 5,300 participants. The organizing committee reported that the heaviest rainfall in 14 years had descended on Sa Pa before the event, transforming already difficult routes into multiplied challenges. Mud covered most of the course, with many steep sections becoming dangerously slippery. Particularly on cliff sections, the organizers had to install rope cable systems to support athletes — a measure typically only seen at the highest-level Asian ultra-trail events. Field observations indicate visibility on many race sections was severely restricted by dense fog. Combined with low temperatures and high humidity, this created potential hypothermia risks for inadequately equipped athletes. This marks the first time the organizing committee had to mobilize rescue forces tripled from previous years. The 100-mile (161 km) and 100 km divisions started at 8 AM on September 18, requiring athletes to complete the distance within specified times — typically ranging from 24 to 48 hours depending on distance. With sawtooth terrain profiles, the total elevation gain for the 100 km distance is estimated at over 7,000 meters, equivalent to climbing Fansipan peak more than twice. A special highlight this season was the participation of actor Nhan Phuc Vinh. He is no stranger to Vietnam's trail runner community — Nhan Phuc Vinh has been known as a professional runner among artists, having completed numerous ultra-trail events domestically and regionally. The participation of a film star has generated significant media attention, drawing public interest to a sport typically unfamiliar to the general population. On social media platforms, netizens continuously expressed excitement over images and videos capturing runners' journeys through the mud. Many comments acknowledged admiration for athletes' endurance, while others raised concerns about safety as weather conditions deteriorated beyond forecasts. The story of VMM 2026 extends beyond a running event. With 5,300 athletes from 54 countries, this represents Sa Pa's largest international sporting event in 2026. Tourism revenue from sports — including flights, hotels, dining, and premium running equipment — flowing into the locality during the four-day event could reach tens of billions of dong. However, the lack of financial transparency in Vietnam's running events generally is noteworthy. According to industry observers, most domestic ultra-trail events operate with unclear financial models: official sponsorship typically accounts for only 30-40% of total budget, with the remainder coming from unofficial contributions and community donations. This creates a significant oversight gap. VMM 2026 also raises questions about Sa Pa's infrastructure capacity to host large numbers of international athletes. While facilities serving the event received high praise, support services such as specialized medical care, on-site first aid systems, and emergency response capabilities still have many shortcomings. This year's rainy season has exacerbated these concerns. Official results of VMM 2026 are expected to be announced on September 19. With titles for 100-mile and 100 km divisions, the outstanding runners not only receive prize money but also earn spots at other World Trail Majors events within the system — a significant advantage for their ultra-trail careers. From the perspective of someone who has followed major sporting events for many years, VMM 2026 demonstrates Vietnam's gradual assertion of its position on the international sports map in non-traditional disciplines. But like all major events, behind the glamour lie unanswered questions: how is sponsorship money distributed, how is athlete safety ensured, and can a small locality like Sa Pa sustain an increasingly large sports tourism influx? The answers will shape VMM's future — and Vietnam's sports tourism industry in the years to come.