This marks Long’s second cross-country journey, an impressive feat of endurance and athleticism.
In 2022, he made history by becoming the first Vietnamese to run across the length of Vietnam, covering a staggering 2,656km in 34 consecutive days, averaging nearly 80km per day. This extraordinary achievement set a precedent and inspired others to push their limits.
Undeterred by the challenges, Long embarked on his second cross-country run in 2024, with a charitable mission in mind. He aimed to raise funds for ‘Warm Clothes for Children’, a charity based in his hometown of Gia Lai, in the Central Highlands. Additionally, he wanted to promote the joy and health benefits of running within the community.
Long’s route for this journey spanned over 1,800km from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. He was joined by hundreds of fellow athletes who shared his passion and supported his cause. Running an average of 90-100km per day, Long completed this expedition in 20 days, an astonishing display of physical and mental fortitude.
As he crossed the finish line, Long expressed his gratitude to those who supported him and reflected on the challenges faced, including enduring heatstroke in Nghe An Province due to extreme weather. Despite the obstacles, his determination remained unwavering.
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| Retired athlete Nguyen Van Long during his remarkable journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in April 2024. Photo: Facebook |
“I was confident in my ability to run across Vietnam again, and today I’ve proven to myself and others that it can be done,” said Long. “My health has held up well, and I’m grateful for the support shown towards the fund for disadvantaged children in Gia Lai.”
Long’s determination shone through as he completed his journey on April 30, a historic day marking Vietnam’s Reunification Day. This date holds significant importance in the country’s history, and Long’s achievement adds to the sense of unity and strength that the day symbolizes.
Nguyen Van Long is a renowned figure in Vietnam’s running community and athletics circles. His running career began in 2005 when he was just 20 years old, and he quickly rose to success as a marathon runner in Gia Lai Province until 2013.
His athletic prowess led him to compete for the Can Tho athletics team in the Mekong Delta, and later with the Dong Nai Province’s team in 2015. In 2019, he returned to his roots in Gia Lai, eventually retiring from his competitive athletics career in 2021.
Beyond his running achievements, Long has also dedicated a decade of his life to coaching, inspiring and mentoring others to embrace the joy of running. His notable accomplishments include winning the national marathon in 2009 and 2011, as well as being a part of the victorious Vietnamese marathon team at the 2007 Southeast Asian marathon.
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