African Runners in Vietnam Marathons

In a surprising twist of global athletic migration, African runners in Vietnam marathons are becoming an increasingly familiar and celebrated sight. As Vietnam experiences a long-distance running renaissance, East African athletes—particularly from Kenya and Ethiopia—are seizing the moment. Drawn by the rising number of organized events, generous prize money, and the chance to compete internationally, these runners are finding both economic opportunity and community in Southeast Asia’s rapidly growing running scene. Their presence is transforming local marathons into world-class competitions, and in return, Vietnam is offering them new stages to shine far from the high-altitude tracks of home.

Tesfaye Tsegaye Keress: From Oromia to Ho Chi Minh City

Ethiopian runner Tesfaye Tsegaye Keress exemplifies this trend. Standing at 1.62 meters and weighing 50 kilograms, Keress navigated through nearly 18,000 participants to secure a front position at the Techcombank Ho Chi Minh City International Marathon in December 2024. His agility and determination were not just for personal glory; the $2,500 prize for first place was a significant motivator. Back home in Sendafa, Ethiopia, Keress supports his wife and two sons, managing a small farm with chickens and cows. The marathon winnings are intended to expand their agricultural endeavors

Vietnam’s Growing Appeal

Vietnam’s marathon landscape has transformed dramatically over the past decade. The rise of a health-conscious middle class and the social allure of marathon events have fueled this growth. According to VnExpress, 41 full marathons were held across the country in 2023 alone. This boom has created a fertile ground for runners like Keress, whose personal best of 2:23:50, achieved in Thailand in 2023, positions him as a top contender in Vietnam’s races.

Edwin Kiptoo: Dominating the Circuit

Kenyan runner Edwin Kiptoo has become a prominent figure in Vietnam’s marathon circuit. His consistent participation and victories in various events have made him a formidable competitor. Kiptoo’s strategy involves competing in as many races as possible, a tactic that not only enhances his earnings but also cements his reputation in the Vietnamese running community.

Shelmith Nyawira Muriuki: Breaking Barriers

Kenyan athlete Shelmith Nyawira Muriuki made headlines by competing alongside male runners in the VnExpress Marathon Quy Nhon 2023. Her performance, finishing the women’s marathon in 2:47:41 and ranking sixth overall, challenged traditional gender norms and inspired many. Muriuki’s participation highlighted the inclusivity and evolving dynamics of Vietnam’s marathon scene.

Victor Chepkwony: Seeking Personal Bests

Victor Chepkwony, another Kenyan runner, set his personal best of 2:19 at the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon in 2019. In 2022, he secured top positions in various Southeast Asian marathons. Chepkwony’s participation in the VnExpress Marathon Imperial Hue 2023 reflects the strategic choices African runners make to compete in favorable conditions and achieve personal milestones.

Cultural Exchange and Community Building

Beyond competition, African runners in Vietnam are fostering cultural exchanges and building communities. Kiptoo’s interactions with local runners, such as Le Hoan and his mother Pham Thi Hong Yen, exemplify the camaraderie and mutual respect developing between international athletes and Vietnamese participants.

Challenges and Adaptations

While Vietnam offers new opportunities, African runners face challenges, including adapting to the tropical climate and navigating logistical aspects of travel and accommodation. However, the supportive environment and growing infrastructure for marathon events are mitigating these hurdles.

The Road Ahead

As Vietnam continues to host more marathon events, the presence of African runners is expected to grow. Their participation not only elevates the competitive standards but also enriches the cultural tapestry of the country’s sporting landscape. The symbiotic relationship between Vietnam’s marathon boom and African athletes’ aspirations signifies a promising future for both.

The influx of African runners in Vietnam marathons underscores a dynamic shift in global athletics, revealing how sport can serve as a powerful bridge between continents and cultures. As these elite athletes find new platforms to showcase their talents, Vietnam’s marathon scene gains not only enhanced competition but also a rich layer of international diversity. The journeys of runners like Tesfaye Tsegaye Keress, Edwin Kiptoo, Shelmith Nyawira Muriuki, and Victor Chepkwony illustrate how resilience, ambition, and global mobility converge on Southeast Asia’s race tracks.

More than a change in race destinations, the rise of African runners in Vietnam marathons reflects the deeper story of globalization in sport. Through their grit and dedication, these athletes are not only reshaping the competitive landscape but also becoming cultural ambassadors—helping Vietnam’s booming marathon culture evolve into a truly global phenomenon. As the country continues to embrace long-distance running, African athletes are proving that they are not just visitors on the podium—they are integral to the future of the sport in Vietnam.

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