In a stunning fusion of sports and culture, the medals for the upcoming VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight 2023 have been revealed, boasting a design steeped in Vietnam’s rich folklore. The extraordinary medals resonate with the cultural heartbeat of Hanoi, featuring a hollow-out aesthetic that empowers runners to weave their personal tales into the fabric of this iconic race.
Runners to Craft Personal Narratives with Unique Medal Design
The VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight, a night race scheduled for November 25-26, will see nearly 11,000 participants illuminate the streets of Hanoi with their passion and determination. The event’s medals, however, are stealing the limelight with their innovative, story-enabling designs.
“We emphasize individuality because the finisher medal represents the runner’s efforts. The organizers will tell part of the story, the rest is in the medal background, the athletes are free to complete it,” explains a representative of the organizers.
A Glance at the Details of the Medal
- Dimensions: Circular shape sized 90 x 96 mm
- Material: A gold-plated steel alloy with a perforated background
- Design Inspiration: Inspired by Dong Son bronze drum motifs and legendary Vietnamese tales
Cultural Narratives Woven into Gold
At the heart of the medal’s design lies the narrative of King Le Loi’s triumph over the Ming invaders—a tale epitomized by the returning of a magical sword to a sacred turtle deity. This rich history is artistically interwoven into the medal:
Front: A stunning embossment of the Turtle Tower and The Huc Bridge Back: The distinguished title “Finisher,” bestowing honor upon race completers
The color scheme is no less thoughtful. Taking cues from the Old Quarter of Hanoi, the deep yellow reflects the city’s aged houses, while the title’s green hue pays homage to Luc Thuy Lake and the weathered signs above the city’s storied shops.
Runners’ Rewards Tailored by Distance
The VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight 2023 is about inclusivity, offering distances from a full marathon to a community-friendly 5 km race. Each achievement is marked by distinctively colored medal strings:
- Full Marathon (42 km): Navy string
- Half Marathon (21 km): Orange string
- 10 km Race: Blue string
- 5 km Fun Run: Purple string
Exploring the Ancient and the Modern of Hanoi
Participants can look forward to a race route meticulously chosen to highlight Hanoi’s duality—a city where time-honored traditions rub shoulders with the progressive beat of modern life. Competitors will pass through the tranquil ancient streets and witness the city’s most iconic landmarks as they embark on this unforgettable nocturnal journey.
Elevating Community Spirit through Team Awards
With the introduction of the Team Award and the participation of nearly twice as many clubs and teams as last season, the marathon transcends personal triumph, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among the runners.
“Every stride through Hanoi’s mystical midnight aura is a step taken together. The collective heartbeat of 52 teams will resonate through the capital’s cool autumn breezes,” shared a participating team member.
A Race Backed by Strong Partnerships
Coming on board as a part of the running festival, Hyundai Thanh Cong Vietnam shapes the event’s commitment to exceptional experiences. Athletes along with enthusiasts are invited to stay tuned as the marathon sprints towards an unforgettable launch, promising a night where every participant is both a runner and a storyteller.
For race enthusiasts and culture lovers alike, mark your calendars for the VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight 2023—where every medal is not just a memento but a canvas for your own Hanoi story.
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