Prominent domestic runners will face formidable international competition for a place on the podium this year as they will have the opportunity to compete with top-ranked marathon runners such as Dino Sefir, Askale Margasa, and Jebesa Dabesa from Ethiopia.

Hanoi Marathon – Heritage Race is scheduled for October 15 with the participation of more than 12,000 runners

According to Associate Professor, PhD. Nguyen Tri, general director of DHA Vietnam, which organises the race, "Inviting high-ranking professional runners to compete at the Hanoi Marathon - Heritage Race is a testament to the determination of the Organising Committee to raise the international level of the race, while creating a playground to give runners, especially Vietnamese professionals, an opportunity to compete and raise their game in preparation for the international marathon arena."

Xtep, the sporting attire manufacturer, will deliver a hotly anticipated singlet with bright colours and motifs of ancient Hanoi architecture on a modern and attractive design.

The prize structure this year has also been increased, with a total cash value up to $30,000, and there are prizes for the elite league and age-based prizes to encourage runners of all backgrounds.

This year, the marathon has been granted eligibility for the Abbott World Marathon Majors' Age Group Ranking System. Finishing times for any race in this system will be recognised as qualifying conditions for the world's six most prestigious marathons, namely New York, Chicago, London, Boston, Tokyo, and Berlin.

“Participating in the Abbot Ranking System and bringing world-class runners here to compete, has helped put Vietnamese marathons on the map, making the country an attractive destination for many world-class athletes,” added Tri.