HDBank Green Marathon 2026: 'Green Steps' in the Can Gio Mangrove Forest

On February 16, 2026, the organizers of HDBank Green Marathon 2026 officially announced details of the event, scheduled for late September 2026 in Can Gio District, Ho Chi Minh City. The race is organized by HDBank in coordination with Unique Company and the Ho Chi Minh City Athletics Federation, under the direction of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports. This is the fifth consecutive edition, marking the return of one of the largest and most prestigious community running events in southern Vietnam. Unlike professional races that focus solely on performance, HDBank Green Marathon is designed to be inclusive, welcoming participants of all backgrounds. The event features four main distances: 5 km, 10 km, half marathon (21.1 km), and full marathon (42.2 km), along with children's races and relay categories for families and teams. The marathon distance is considered the 'king' distance, suitable for semi-professional athletes and passionate long-distance runners. With such variety, the event is not only for fast runners but also for beginners and families, creating a sports festival atmosphere. A unique highlight of HDBank Green Marathon 2026 is the route through the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-recognized world biosphere reserve since 2026. Participants will have the chance to experience a picturesque landscape of mangrove forests, rivers, and coastal scenery. However, this route also presents unexpected challenges, including sandy paths, exposed roots, high humidity, or sudden rain – all of which can impact runners' pacing, especially on longer distances. To address these, the organizers will deploy water stations and medical teams along the course. The race route has been certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) for its distance and technical standards. AIMS is a prestigious global body that verifies the quality of endurance races. This certification serves as an 'international passport,' reassuring participants about route accuracy and timing measurement. Mr. Nguyen Dinh Au, representing the Ho Chi Minh City Athletics Federation, said: 'Achieving AIMS certification not only confirms organizational quality but also facilitates the integration of the race into the international running system, thereby raising the event's profile.' Notably, HDBank Green Marathon 2026 is being modernized through digital technology. The organizers have introduced the 'Green Marathon online' platform – a virtual training space for athletes. Registered runners can use the HDBank app to track training plans, record daily running activities, and interact with the running community nationwide. This creates a sports-banking digital ecosystem, potentially making the event a year-round activity rather than a single race day. It is hoped to promote a sustainable running culture in Vietnam. As the main sponsor, HDBank has been involved in Vietnamese sports for over 36 years, supporting football and running. At this fifth edition, HDBank reaffirms its commitment to environmental activities, including tree planting, beach cleanups, and the 'Green Race – Live Healthy' campaign. According to organizers, previous editions planted more than 2,000 trees in the Can Gio area, contributing to the growth of coastal mangroves. The event's appeal lies not only in entertainment but also in its impact on local tourism. Runners and their families can combine race with leisure, promoting the natural beauty of Can Gio. Experts note that the race serves as a catalyst for sports tourism, an emerging global trend. In terms of professional management, despite its community nature, the event follows strict safety and sports regulations. Athletes undergo health checks and compete in age groups. To ensure fairness, technical standards, starting points, and finish lines are verified by AIMS. Technical officials from the Ho Chi Minh City Athletics Federation supervise the event. The event is expected to attract thousands of runners from various age groups and skill levels. Most are recreational athletes from local running clubs, companies, and schools, as well as families. Some semi-competitive runners use it to build fitness for larger races. However, the organizers emphasize enjoyment and sportsmanship over records. Side activities include local food stalls, green product exhibitions, and children's entertainment. The event aims to foster community bonding and create a festive atmosphere. HDBank also plans to increase digital promotions, including livestreamed training sessions and beginner-friendly workouts, reaching a broader audience, especially the youth. In the context of Vietnamese athletics, HDBank Green Marathon is becoming a reference for community-based sports models. Unlike major international marathons with huge prize money and elite athletes, HDBank Green Marathon focuses on participation for all. This does not diminish its value; rather, it creates a healthy running ecosystem where everyone can find joy and motivation. The fusion of ecological awareness and digital transformation gives HDBank Green Marathon a distinctive brand. It demonstrates how a corporation can use sports to fulfill social responsibilities, promoting a healthy lifestyle while protecting the environment. This unique combination has attracted media attention and potential sponsors both domestically and internationally. Looking back, the race has grown from a small experimental event to a major one with thousands of participants. This growth reflects Vietnam's rising running demand and the professionalism of the organizing committee. Future editions are expected to expand scale and improve quality. The organizers will release full information, including rules, registration, and schedules, on the official event website. Athletes are advised to follow official channels to register early, as slots are limited. For those who love running and nature, HDBank Green Marathon 2026 promises an unmissable experience. Amid the city's hustle, a day running in the mangrove forest, breathing fresh air, and connecting with nature is precious. Running is not just about finishing; it's about enjoying every step. See you at Can Gio, where every step carries the green of life.