HDBank Green Marathon 2026: A community running festival in Can Gio mangrove forest

HDBank Green Marathon 2026 has announced its fifth edition in Can Gio district, Ho Chi Minh City. The event is positioned as a community road running festival for recreational runners rather than an elite national championship. It is expected to take place in September 2026 with flag distances of 5 km, 10 km, half marathon 21 km and marathon 42 km. Children categories and team groups are also included, making the race suitable for families and local running clubs. The event is coordinated by HDBank, Unique Company and the Ho Chi Minh City Athletics Federation. The involvement of the local federation helps the race align with domestic sports administration and technical rules. AIMS certification for the route is also confirmed, meaning the measured distance meets international road race standards. This is an important safety and credibility factor for amateur runners who want to complete their first marathon. The Can Gio course runs through a UNESCO-recognized mangrove biosphere reserve, giving the event a distinctive green identity. However, the coastal terrain may include sand, tree roots and humid sections, so runners need a flexible pacing strategy rather than relying simply on fitness. The race has not yet announced elite athletes, and it is not part of Olympic qualifying pathways, but its competitive atmosphere is deliberately kept light to attract broader participation. A major feature is the digital component, including Green Marathon online and HDBank app integration. Participants can handle registration, payment and eKYC verification digitally, while also taking part in year-round training challenges. In past editions, more than 2,000 trees were planted and several beach cleanups were held. This environmental commitment adds long-term value to the event and helps promote sustainable sports tourism in Can Gio. With more than 36 years of sports sponsorship in Vietnam, HDBank expects to build a deeper connection with the running community through this event. The race may not produce elite results, but it can contribute to grassroots running culture and raise awareness about protecting the region’s mangrove forest. Future editions will depend on participant feedback, safety management and the quality of the overall race-day experience.