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Not even close. In fact, up until last year, my longest-ever run topped out at about 10km… and that ended with a bout of food poisoning and three weeks on the couch. Somehow, I found myself signing up for a half marathon on 23rd March 2025 in Da Nang, Vietnam.
Truthfully, it was never about running….It was about having a unique travel experience and exploring a city from a different perspective. Once I realised the cut-off time for a 21km race was 5 hours, I knew I should be able to walk it and still easily make that time. So it was with the lowest of expectations that my training began…
Training consisted of beachside jogs, rainforest hikes and bike rides around the city, all of which I did more of purely because I knew I had this race coming up.
When it came to race day, I laced into my running shoes, a Wild Earth tee clinging to my nervous sweat, and a bag of Haribo shoved into the side pocket of my running shorts for when the times get tough. I hopped in a taxi to the start line, past the international athletes sprinting in the dark, already well into their 42km runs and looking like they weren’t even breaking a sweat..
I shuffled nervously into ‘Pen Four’ (the slowest group), feeling every inch the impostor… but something magical happens when the start gun fires. My fears of being left in the dust were long forgotten, and I realised it’s not about speed, pace, or even athletic ability if you’re in Pen Four… It’s about being absorbed into a shared, electric energy and having a good time.
Runners dressed as milk bottles and women with multi-coloured socks instantly became teammates, pacers, and morale boosters. Strangers shouting encouragement from the sidelines in Vietnamese, laughter ringing out louder than heavy breathing, and the car-free streets of Da Nang take on a surreal, festival-like atmosphere.
As the kilometres ticked by, my anxiety dissolved. Somewhere between kilometre five and a frantic bathroom sprint at kilometre ten (my pro-tip: hotel lobbies are your friend), the city began revealing itself in an intimate, unexpected way. Sunrise breaking over the river, neighbourhoods I'd never seen unfolding quietly under our feet as the rest of the city began to wake up. Volunteers offering bananas, random electrolyte drinks, and endless high-fives. I literally drank it all in.
When knee pain and exhaustion inevitably crept in around kilometre fifteen, the camaraderie and sheer joy of the moment pulled me through. Crossing the finish line was nothing short of euphoric.
I beat my goal (2 hours 46 minutes, take that, 5-hour cutoff!) and immediately spent an hour cheering others home, flying higher than any club night or questionable youthful adventure could ever match. Not to mention EVERYONE gets a medal…. I had no idea, which made it even more special when I was told to go and get mine.
I really want to drill this home. Running events aren't just for runners. They're for explorers, culture seekers, and anyone craving human connection. It’s a travel hack unlike any other that transforms busy cities into playgrounds and locals into instant friends.
Running Essentials for Your First Race
Reliable Running Shoes
Check out Wild Earth’s full range of road running and trail running shoes. I wore the Salomon Speedcross 6… admittedly, this is not a road running shoe, so I can’t fully recommend it. But as I only travel with trail running shoes and some Teva Sandals, this was something that ticked all of my boxes (I’ve been road running and pounding pavements as well as hitting the trails with this for over 5 months and I’m super happy with the comfort and how the tread is holding up).
Comfortable Clothing
Breathable running gear, like a Wild Earth running tee and moisture-wicking shorts. Icebreaker Cool Lite clothing works great for both travel and running, so that was my priority. Check out the full range of running clothing here.
Pack easy snacks like bananas, nuts, or energy bars (and Haribo for emergencies!). Wild Earth has a whole range of great nutrition gels, etc of you’re into that too. Electrolytes and water are key, readily available along most routes. If you want to bring a water bottle, you can wear a running vest and store it there to save holding it.
Extras
A smartphone for memorable snaps and headphones for motivation.
I can honestly say this race has changed the way I think about running and marathons. I used to feel that events like this were for athletes and people who like pain. That is still true, but I can see now that there’s a whole other group of people who get a lot out of running events like this. It’s the community, the experience and the joy of being in a tribe and doing something with others. So, what are you waiting for? If you need some ideas of where to run, here’s a list of super cool Marathons around the world.
List of Epic Marathons Around the World (2025)
1. Run Rome The Marathon, Italy (March 16)
Explore the timeless allure of Rome, passing landmarks such as the Colosseum, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Roman Forum. Runners experience the city's vibrant culture, ancient history, and charming neighbourhoods, making this marathon a moving journey through the heart of Europe’s historic capital. Entry from €65.
2. Petra Desert Marathon, Jordan (September 6)
This extraordinary marathon leads runners through Jordan’s stunning desert landscape, culminating at the breathtaking Treasury of Petra. The route offers a striking contrast of rugged terrain and rich archaeological history, providing a sense of awe and achievement in equal measure. Entry from $1,450 USD.
3. Great Wall Marathon, China (May 17)
Navigate the ancient pathways of the Great Wall of China, challenging your endurance with steep climbs and dramatic descents. The marathon promises panoramic vistas of verdant mountains and historic ruins, offering runners an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Entry from $1,500 USD.
4. Midnight Sun Marathon, Norway (June 21)
Experience the magical midnight sun illuminating the Arctic landscape in Tromsø, Norway. This unique race offers breathtaking views of fjords, snow-capped mountains, and charming Nordic villages under continuous daylight, creating a surreal and mesmerising running experience. Entry from €100.
5. Mount Fuji Marathon, Japan (Late November, TBA)
Held near Japan's iconic Mount Fuji, this race offers runners picturesque views of autumn foliage, serene lakes, and the towering presence of the sacred mountain. This marathon combines scenic beauty with cultural immersion in one of Japan’s most celebrated landscapes. Entry from ¥12,800 (~$120 AUD).
6. Patagonia International Marathon, Chile (September, TBA)
Set within Torres del Paine National Park, this marathon takes runners through spectacular wilderness, featuring glaciers, rugged peaks, and pristine lakes. Participants experience solitude and stunning vistas, making it a perfect choice for adventurers seeking profound natural beauty. Entry from $120 USD.
7. Gold Coast Marathon, Australia (July 5-6)
Renowned for its flat, fast route along Australia's sunny Gold Coast, this race offers ocean views, enthusiastic crowds, and a lively atmosphere. It’s ideal for personal bests and first-time marathoners alike, showcasing Queensland’s vibrant coastal lifestyle. Entry from $135 AUD.
8. Australian Outback Marathon, Australia (July 26)
Immerse yourself in Australia's heartland with spectacular views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. This iconic marathon combines cultural depth with natural wonder, offering a unique and enriching running experience set against striking red desert scenery. Entry from AUD 1,490.
