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CHARITY WORK

Our races are about much more than running. Every Vietnam Trail Series race by Topas contributes money to charitable work.

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VTM2026 Medals Graphic

The 2026 Medal meaning

For VTM 2026, we aimed to create a finisher medal that represents more than personal achievement. We wanted it to...

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PERSONALISED CERTIFICATES

📸 Get creative and design your own one-of-a-kind Finisher Certificate! Great news! You can now customize your Finisher Certificate with...

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News

CHARITY WORK

Our races are about much more than running. Every Vietnam Trail Series race by Topas contributes money to charitable work.

Read More

Others

Charity

Interviews

       
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12. May 2026
News

Asia Pacific Trail Running Championships 2026​

Vietnam Athlete Team Selection - Criteria & Process
2. April 2026
Others

VMM set for record breaking year

This year, the elite field at VMM is set to be more stacked than ever before, particularly in the two World Trail Majors distances of 100km and 50km.
1. April 2026
Charity

Saving Newborn Lives in Moc Chau

Lifesaving medical equipment funded by Vietnam Trail Marathon has been presented to the Moc Chau General Hospital Neonatal Unit, paving the way for more newborn babies’ lives to be saved.
11. February 2026
News

Records fall at Vietnam Trail Marathon 2026

Over 4000 raced the Trails of Moc Chau at VTM 2026, with perfect conditions and solid competition seeing course records tumble.
11. February 2026
Charity

Building Capacity – Saving Babies’ Lives

Last month Vietnam Trail Marathon (VTM) and So Sinh Vietnam once again partnered at Moc Chau General Hospital, strengthening neonatal care, building on the previous years of partnership and support.
11. February 2026
Charity

Blue Dragon kids achieve and inspire at VTM

At Vietnam Trail Marathon, we believe running is not just about competition, but about opportunity, confidence and growth. This is why we invited a large team of kids and staff from the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundati...
10. February 2026
News

VTM 2026 FINISH RATES

VTM 2026 has narrowly bettered the awesome finish rate of last year at 98.4% overall !
30. January 2026
News

CHARITY WORK

Our races are about much more than running. Every Vietnam Trail Series race by Topas contributes money to charitable work.
20. January 2026
News

More than 4,000 runners to race Vietnam Trail Marathon, Moc Chau

On January 31, 2026, Vietnam Trail Marathon will welcome runners from 43 nations to the beautiful landscapes of Moc Chau, racing distances of up to 70km. The stage is set for battles between returning champions, top V...
31. December 2025
News

Ultrarunning champion “day jobs” ​

Many top ultra runners have held day jobs while achieving greatness. From doctor to firefighter, here we list some ultra champions and the occupations they held when they achieved some of their biggest victories.
19. December 2025
News

REFLECTION – LINH BIBPIX & VIETNAM TRAIL MARATHON

For Linh BIBPIX, Vietnam Trail Marathon is more than just a race. It is where his journey began – as a runner, a lover of the mountains, and eventually, a photographer deeply devoted to trail running.
18. December 2025
News

The 2026 Medal meaning

For VTM 2026, we aimed to create a finisher medal that represents more than personal achievement. We wanted it to reflect the culture, atmosphere, and identity of Moc Chau.
25. November 2025
News

World Trail Majors 2025 Champions Crowned

After Ultra Trail Cape Town, the final race in the 12 event World Trail Majors series, the 2025 champions have been decided.
24. November 2025
Charity · News

New classrooms and playground for Ban Ho kids ​

On 29 October 2025 in Ban Ho Commune (Sa Pa), Topas (VMM organiser), in collaboration with charity partner Frederiksborg Gymnasium (Denmark), hosted the Inauguration Ceremony of the new playground for the Thanh Kim Sc...
17. November 2025
Charity · News

Blue Dragon’s Success Story: Ti’s Journey from the Streets to a Brighter Future

Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation is one of the official charity partners of the Vietnam Trail Series.We are proud to share one of Blue Dragon’s remarkable success stories - the journey of Ti, a young boy who transfor...
3. November 2025
News

VMM is Vietnam’s Western States 2026 Qualifier

VMM is Vietnam's Western States 2026 Qualifier
25. October 2025
Charity · News

Supporting Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation 2025

This year we welcome a large team of more than thirty runners from Blue Dragon Children's Foundation with free slots and full support for travel and their stay at VJM. Many are from disadvantaged communities and wi...
23. October 2025
News

PERSONALISED CERTIFICATES

📸 Get creative and design your own one-of-a-kind Finisher Certificate! Great news! You can now customize your Finisher Certificate with any background photo you love. This feature is the result of a collaboration bet...
19. October 2025
Interviews · News
Official VJM Photographer, Van Ngo’s Pu Luong story​

"Over the years of capturing Topas trail races, Van Ngo has become a familiar name behind some of the most iconic images of Vietnam’s mountains and runners. Through his lens, Pu Luong comes alive - not just in its landscapes, but in its spirit - where nature, people, and the passion for adventure intertwine."

19. October 2025
News

Ultra Rumble in the Jungle of Pu Luong

The Vietnam Jungle Marathon (VJM) 2025 unfolded today with awesome racing from trail runners from 36 nations. In a day of intense racing with the lead being tightly contested in the ultra battles, Vietnam, France, I...
16. October 2025
News

Pu Luong hosts ultra showdown at Vietnam Jungle Marathon

Set against the breathtaking backdrop and pristine beauty of Vietnam's Pu Luong Nature Reserve, the eighth edition of the Vietnam Jungle Marathon (VJM) will take place on October 18. This year, the race will welcome p...
23. September 2025
News

VMM 2025 – Vietnam and China Take World Trail Majors Wins

The Vietnam Mountain Marathon (VMM) 2025 presented by Kailas FUGA unfolded today under perfect weather conditions with an electrifying display of endurance from thousands of trail runners from 47 nations.
17. September 2025
News

Vietnam’s World Trail Majors debut is here

Runners from 47 nations are set to run up to 100km through the majestic peaks of Sa Pa this weekend. This marksVietnam Mountain Marathon’s debut as part of World Trail Majors, together with 11 other events around the ...
10. September 2025
News

World Trail Majors Leaderboards Set for Sapa Shakeup

The final standings on the World Trail Majors leaderboards are determined by the BEST TWO results across the 12 World Trail Majors races. Runners only need to run 2 of the races to get on the board.
9. September 2025
News

Welcome Nhon Trong from Vietnam!

Racing for KAILAS FUGA team, Nhon will be flying the flag for Vietnam in the 100km. With an ITRA index of 754, Nhon has lots of history with VMM, starting from his early days in trail running.
9. September 2025
News

Welcome Binbin Xiong from China!

Part of the strong KAILAS FUGA team heading to Sapa, Binbin Xiong will be one to watch in the 50km.
9. September 2025
News

Welcome Jianjian Yang from China!

He comes to Vietnam looking to secure the overall World Trail Majors Short Series 2025 title by backing up that previous victory at the Hong Kong 100 Half (57km), which is also part of World Trail Majors. The two best...
5. September 2025
News

KAILAS FUGA x VMM 2025

We’re proud to announce KAILAS FUGA as the Presenting Partner of Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2025.
25. July 2025
News

Big news! Guangfu Meng (Hoka) to race VMM 50km​

We are proud to welcome Guangfu Meng (ITRA Index 932), one of China’s standout trail runners, to the 50km race at Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2025 as part of the World Trail Majors Short Series.
25. July 2025
News

Big News! Welcome Fuzhao Xiang (Hoka) to VMM 50km!

One of the world's top ultra runners, Fuzhao Xiang's ITRA score of 817 makes her the highest scoring female ever to race in Vietnam.
15. May 2025
Interviews · News
Talking Ultra with Nguyen Si Hieu

"With eight years of trail running experience, Nguyen Si Hieu has become one of Vietnam’s brightest ultra talents. Here we talk to him about his third place at Vietnam Ultra Marathon 75km and the Rinjani 100 - two results that followed his victory at the VTM70km at the start of the year. "

14. May 2025
News

Vietnam Trail Marathon – A Race of Firsts. Vanja Cnops’ 1st long distance victory ​

"Vietnam Trail Marathon is very accessible for trail newbies. Everything is super well organised. Travelling there is easy and smooth, and the trails are well marked - there is no need to rely on GPX or worry about ge...
6. March 2025
News

Vietnam Ultra Marathon 2025: Race Preview

Title: Marketing Executive – Topas This is a great opportunity to join the friendly Topas team and contribute to the Vietnam Trail Series events, the award winning Topas Ecolodge, and to our tours. The role i...
13. February 2025
News

WE’RE HIRING: MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Title: Marketing Executive – Topas This is a great opportunity to join the friendly Topas team and contribute to the Vietnam Trail Series events, the award winning Topas Ecolodge, and to our tours. The role is ba...
10. February 2025
News

The VUM 75km: The Most Competitive Ultra Field yet in Vietnam? ​

VUM is set to take place on Women's Day and the stage is set for a hotly contested race on the women's side. Setting up an exciting contest, we will welcome Slovakia's Veronika Leng who placed second, one place ahead ...
25. January 2025
Charity · News

VMM Donates VND 1 Billion to Typhoon Yagi Relief

When Typhoon Yagi struck Lao Cai, the damage left behind was devastating. Vietnam Mountain Marathon acted by allocating VND1billion to the relief effort.
9. January 2025
News

Lunar New Year Ultra: 3,000 Trail Runners to Conquer Moc Chau’s Scenic Trails ​

This weekend, over 3,000 runners from 42 nations are set to race from 5km to 70km through the stunning mountainous terrain of Moc Chau on January 11 2025. Among the competitors are top runners from Vietnam, including ...
20. December 2024
News

World Trail Majors welcomes Vietnam Mountain Marathon to Global Stage

Sapa’s Vietnam Mountain Marathon (VMM) has been accepted to the exclusive list of just 12 races on the World Trail Majors circuit, alongside some of the most historical and prestigious ultra trail events worldwide. Th...
10. December 2024
News

VMM 2024 Runner Photo Contest ​

In this blog, we feature some of the most remarkable photos taken by our runners throughout the event. From breathtaking views to powerful race moments, these images offer a unique glimpse into the spirit of VMM. Expl...
10. December 2024
News

VMM 2024 Photo Highlights ​

VMM 2024 was a season filled with incredible moments, stunning views, and unforgettable emotions. From the energy at the start line to the breathtaking landscapes along the course, the beauty of the race was captured ...
19. November 2024
News

Why a buckle for 100 miles

Have you ever wondered why VMM 100-mile finishers receive a belt buckle? The reason is steeped in ultra running history. The Western States Endurance Run (for which VMM is an official qualifier) is one of the world...
19. November 2024
News

The VMM 100 Mile Finisher Trophy

To complete 100 miles in the Sapa mountains is a staggering achievement. Most 'normal' people cannot fathom completing the 50km at VMM, let alone the 100km; the 100 miles is something beyond the imagination. M...
18. November 2024
Charity · News

Milestone hit: Over USD500,000 For Charity!

Our races are about much more than running. Since Vietnam Mountain Marathon began, charity has been an integral part of our work. This same philosophy then continued with Vietnam Trail Marathon, Vietnam Jungle Maratho...
7. November 2024
News

Stunning race photography from VJM

Describing the incredible beauty of Pu Luong through the written word is hard, but fortunately we welcomed a host of talented photographers who showcase this area in all its grandeur.
7. November 2024
News

The Vietnam Jungle Marathon Through the Runner’s Eyes

Massive thank you to Vietnam Trail Series by Topas for the spectacular race experience. What a way to explore the hidden trails, amazing countryside and challenge yourself. The organizers offer a variety of distances ...
5. November 2024
News

Experience the Hmong New Year at VTM 2025!

Experience the vibrant Hmong New Year at VTM 2025! Timed with the Hmong festivities, this race lets you witness colorful traditions, festive music, and the cultural heart of Moc Chau. Discover more about this unique j...
15. October 2024
News

How to Use the LiveTrail App | Vietnam Trail Series

In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into how to use the LiveTrail app effectively, ensuring you have the information you need before, during, and after your trail running event.
11. September 2024
News

Postponement of VMM 2024 due to typhoon Yagi

Postponement of VMM 2024 due to typhoon Yagi In Sapa, we have been assessing the situation over the past days. We at Topas and the authorities had hoped we would be able to organise the event following the storm, but ...
29. August 2024
News

A guide to successful race nutrition

One of the key factors for a successful race day is your nutrition. This article from Vietnam Trail Series by Topas aims to distill the complex topic of race fueling into three main parts: Plan – Practice – Execute.
23. July 2024
Interviews · News
Why I love VMM – Story from the Trail

"Join runners from around the globe in the unforgettable adventure of the Vietnam Mountain Marathon (VMM)! But don't just take our word for it—hear from the passionate runners who have experienced its magic firsthand. Here are what our runners had to say about their experience:"

12. July 2024
Charity · News

Running for Joy: How Blue Dragon’s Running Club is Changing Lives​

Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation works with young people who have been rescued from human trafficking, spent time on the streets, or grown up with disabilities. The charity’s running club is one of the many activitie...
19. June 2024
News

Recent VMM Research Gallery ​

A number of course optimisations are in progress. We will be sharing further details with you soon, but for now, you can enjoy some of photographs of what awaits you in September. We are sharing more photos of the goo...
12. June 2024
Interviews
Learning from a DNF – Quang Trần ​

"I am someone who does not beat myself up for choosing to DNF. I have DNFd a couple of times over my running career, including by choice. "

12. June 2024
Interviews · News
Q and A: Kellie Angel, Overall VJM Champ

"It’s a lifestyle - I love seeing what my body is capable of, pushing the boundaries and visiting amazing places. "

21. May 2024
Others

Top Tips for Trail Success

Expert Advice For Trail Success If you are getting ready for VMM or any other ultra, you need more than just rigorous training – you need a strategic approach on race day. Here Nguyễn Sĩ Hiếu breaks down his top...
20. March 2024
News

Runners from 40 Nations face 70km in Mai Chau

Mai Chau has long been a popular destination for Vietnamese and inbound travelers, but a new race from the organizers of VMM is set to show 2,200 runners from 40 nations a whole new side of this area.
7. February 2024
Charity · News

Blue Dragon Running Club at VTM 2024 ​

Among the thousands of VTM runners this year, there was a very special group of younger runners: nearly 50 kids from the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation. With lungs filled with fresh air and determination in their h...
6. February 2024
Charity · News

VTM Support Newborns Vietnam work in Moc Chau​

Up to now, VTM has allocated VND1.1 billion (USD45k) of the race's charity fund to the work of Newborns Vietnam in Moc Chau and Son La. As part of this commitment, the Neonatal unit team of Thao Nguyen General Hospita...
22. January 2024
News

VTM course records broken in double French victory at VTM ​

Vietnam Trail Marathon welcomed more than 4,000 runners from 40 nations on the blossom-filled trails of Moc Chau. This 6th edition of Vietnam Trail Marathon has grown to become one of the largest mountain runs in Viet...
17. January 2024
News

Thousands of runners descend on blossom-filled Moc Chau

More than 4,000 runners from 40 nations will race up to 70km across the mountainous terrain of Moc Chau as the plum blossoms bloom ahead of Lunar New Year. Top runners from Vietnam including a SEA Games gold medalist ...
10. January 2024
News

IMSports x HOKA proud to be the official partner of Topas Vietnam Trail series 2024

IMSports – All for running is widely recognized as a well-established and esteemed retail system, distinguished for offering authentic products to the road and trail running community.
29. December 2023
Interviews · News
365 Marathons in a Year – Le Thi Hang Achieves the Incredible

"Despite only taking up running in 2022, Hang has just finished a marathon every day for the full year of 2023. In the same year, she also came second at the VMM100k, beating many far more experienced runners. Here, we talk to her about her motivations, her training, her nutrition and whether she will wear the YSandals she wore for VMM again when she returns for VMM 2024.... "

29. December 2023
Interviews · News
Why I Love VTM – By Our Runners

"All of us here at Topas are passionate about VTM, but rather than sharing our own reasons for loving it, we decided to ask a group of previous VTM runners to share their perspectives. Keep reading to discover their thoughts and insights on why they love this race. "

4. December 2023
Interviews · News
Q and A: John Medinger, ultra running legend

"Western States Board Member John Medinger began running in 1974 and ran his first ultra in 1980. He’s since run 150 of them. He’s founded and race directed some great races and he’s never missed an edition of Western States since he first crewed there in 1983. ‘Tropical John’ Medinger has seen it all. He is a true lover of trail running. Here, we talk to him about the sport and his own running, past and present. "

7. November 2023
News

Behind the scenes at Vietnam Ultra Marathon ​

Right after VJM, many of the Topas Sapa team headed directly to Mai Chau to work on the trails of our new race, Vietnam Ultra Marathon. Read on to learn more about their work and also a special ritual of the Muong peo...
1. November 2023
Charity

Blue Dragon Kids Conquer VJM

A massive congratulations to the children of the Blue Dragon Running Club for conquering the Vietnam Jungle Marathon! At VJM 33 kids and some Blue Dragon staff swapped the hustle and bustle of the urban jungle for Vi...
23. October 2023
News

Australian Women Triumphs Over All Men at VJM Ultra 70k

The day before VJM was Vietnamese women’s Day, but the day belonged to Australia’s Kellie Angel, winning Vietnam Jungle Marathon 70k outright with a faster time than all the men. Other victories came for Vietnam, Fran...
20. October 2023
Interviews
Q & A: World Record Holder Rainer Predl ahead of VJM

"Rainer Predl is a multiple world record holder known for his extreme treadmill distances and unique challenges. He has also won races including Mojave Desert Run 100k and the 100k Arctic Bear Ultra. Here he talks about his motivations, his records and how he expects to perform at Vietnam Jungle Marathon. "

17. October 2023
News

International Battle at Vietnam Jungle Marathon includes multiple World Record Holder ​

Now in its sixth edition, VJM is set to play host to runners from 40 nations on the beautiful trails of Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Runners will race distances up to 70k on challenging terrain. The quality field of inter...
5. October 2023
News

Training Tips – Coach Jean’s 2 Week Taper

Jean Haniquaut gives his advice on how to approach your final two weeks of tapering so you arrive at the start line ready to race.
2. October 2023
News

English couple’s joint win at VMM

English couple’s joint win at VMM Couple, Finn Lydon and Ellen Crombie, have been running together for years. They both have a love for nature and adventure, and trail running has become their way of exploring n...
26. September 2023
News

Over 4,000 run up to 100km at VMM 10th Anniversary 100km Victories for Vietnam and Hong Kong

Today thousands of Vietnamese runners raced with those from 51 nations on routes including 50k, 70k and 100k at the 10th anniversary of Vietnam Mountain Marathon.
20. September 2023
News

Over 4,000 to run up to 100km at VMM 10th Anniversary

Vietnam Mountain Marathon was the nation’s first ultra marathon in 2013. At the first edition, just one Vietnamese runner finished the race’s longest distance. At the 10th anniversary this weekend, thousands of Vietn...
4. September 2023
News

VMM GEAR UP by Zenone

VMM GEAR UP by Zenone Zenone X Kilomet X VMM Have you been actively training for VMM and preparing for the taper phase? Have you bought or are currently in the process of shopping for VMM gear but unsure if they’...
30. August 2023
Interviews · News
VMM Q and A: Endurance Asia’s Scott Pugh

"This year VMM partners with Scott and Endurance Asia, so you will see him on stage at the race. Read on to find out some of the lessons Scott has learned from his guests, from his own experience and more…"

21. August 2023
Others

How to Run Faster with Zone 2 Pace and Heart Rate

How to Run Faster with Zone 2 Pace and Heart Rate Zone 2 training is a very effective means of becoming a better ultra runner and it can also help you become faster too. Here Coach and Champion Quang Tran – Foun...
9. August 2023
News

A Weekend Of VMM Trail Inspection | Vietnam Mountain Marathon

Over the weekend we headed out on some more trial inspection to re-check some of the new parts of the 70k, 100k and 10k we’ve added for 2023. The 50k also has plenty of new sections – you can see a bit more about tha...
1. August 2023
News

More VMM 2023 Updates!

Get the latest on our courses, including the 10k and 21k.
20. July 2023
Interviews
Q & A: Champion, Darren Southcott​

"Darren Southcott is relatively new to trail running and was unknown to many when he won Vietnam Jungle Marathon 42k; however, with a sub 2:30 marathon, he was always one to watch and he has proved it is possible to translate road speed to the hills. "

6. July 2023
Charity

VMM supports Newborns Vietnam in Lao Cai

VMM supports Newborns Vietnam in Lao Cai Funds from the Vietnam Mountain Marathon have recently been utilized to support the Neonatal Care and Resuscitation Training Programme at the Lao Cai Obstetrics and Newborns Un...
26. June 2023
News

VMM 2023 Course Updates

We are excited to announce some great upgrades to our courses for VMM 2023. We have the new ultra distance of 50k, plus more trail and gain for the 70k and 100k. There is also a new Sapa town start for the 100k and th...
19. June 2023
Interviews · News
Q&A Nguyen Si Hieu

"Well known in Vietnam as one of the nation’s best trail runners and a runner with one of the biggest smiles, Hieu has gone from strength to strength since he entered the sport in 2017."

12. June 2023
Interviews · News
Trail Runner Road Marathons – How Fast Are They?

"We took a look at the road marathon personal bests of some of our past and future Vietnam Trail Series runners. We found some seriously fast times... "

9. June 2023
Interviews · News
Coach Jean’s Gain Training Tips

"Trail running invariably means you are going to face some elevation. Here are Jean-Henri Haniquaut’s tips on how to come to the start line ready to race. "

1. June 2023
News

Sports Event Executive

Sports Event Executive A great opportunity to be a part of Vietnam Trail Series at Topas, bringing mountain runners exceptional experiences at Vietnam Mountain Marathon, Vietnam Trail Marathon and Vietnam Jungle Marat...
22. May 2023
News

VJM Improvements and Updates

VJM IMPROVEMENTS AND UPDATES We’ve been back in beautiful Pu Luong recently making some updates to the race course and we are very confident our runners are going to love the new courses.   As a result of the upgrades...
3. April 2023
Charity

VMM Funds Life-Changing Surgery

VMM Funds Life-Changing Surgery Operation Smile recently performed life-changing surgery on 150 children with cleft lips at Vietnam Cuba Friendship Hospital. This was made possible in part thanks to funds raised via V...
3. April 2023
Interviews
Why I Love VJM – By Our Runners

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16. February 2023
Charity

VTM Saving Lives with Newborns Vietnam

Over the Vietnam Trail Marathon weekend, Newborns Vietnam and Son La Department of Health signed a three-year partnership with Son La Province General Hospital, Moc Chau General Hospital and Thao Nguyen General Hospit...
15. February 2023
Charity

Achievement = Confidence

Blue Dragon Children's Foundation works with street kids and survivors of human trafficking and those in positions of hardship. Here, the charitys co-CEO, Do Duy Vi, write about the importance of achievement and the r...
9. January 2023
News

Italian and Vietnamese runners win VTM Ultra

Italian & Vietnamese runners win VTM Ultra Moc Chau welcomed thousands of runners racing up to 70km on stunning trails in remote mountains and through minority villages and blossom filled orchards. Plus, money rai...
6. December 2022
Others

VTS Strava Club Leaders (28/11 – 04/12/2022)

Last week, VTS Strava Club witnessed great performances from its members. John Calabrese led the distance records while Mita Saha led total running time boards.   In terms of distance, John Calaberse got a total ...
2. December 2022
Interviews
Q & A with Multiple Ultra Trail Champion, Canada’s Jeff Campbell

"We talked to him about coming to running relatively late, how he fell for the sport, his training, what running brings to his life, and more. "

25. November 2022
Charity

Child drowning prevention for Thanh Hoa

With funds raised by the Vietnam Jungle Marathon trail race, Topas has continued funding work to prevent children from drowning in Thanh Hoa province, where the race is held. The latest training held this summer had a...
25. November 2022
Others

VTS Strava Club Leaders (19/11 – 25/11/2022)

Last week’s VTS Strava Club saw Thủy Lê (Vietnam) leading both the distance and total running time boards. She ran 378.2 km in a total time of more than 44 hours. From Vietnam, Lan Nguyễn scored the second spot for to...
26. October 2022
News

Vietnam Jungle Marathon 2022 Photo Contest

Here are the top 10 shots chosen chosen by the organisers from the photo contest submissions. One of these will earn A FREE SLOT at Vietnam Trail Marathon 2023 on 07/1. You can now vote for them at our fanpage here. &...
18. October 2022
Charity

Champ Jeff Visits Blue Dragon Run Club

Last night 70k champ Jeff Campbell was the special guest at the Blue Dragon Running Club post-VJM party. He attended along with Race Director, David Lloyd, and Quang Nguyen, who helps coach the kids.  After Jeff gave ...
18. October 2022
News

Canadian and Belgium Champs Crowned at a stunning Vietnam Jungle Marathon

Runners from 47 nations ran up to 70km in Pu Luong Nature Reserve on Saturday, with money also raised to fund a local school upgrade Photo: Vanja Cnops on her way to victory in the 70km   This was the fifth edition of...
14. October 2022
News

47 nationalities to run at Vietnam Jungle Marathon

Runners from 47 nations are set to run up to 70km in Pu Luong Nature Reserve this weekend. With some top ultra runners coming from overseas going head to head with Vietnam’s best, this year’s 70k race Vietnam Jungle M...
31. August 2022
Others

6 Top 100 Mile Ultra Tips from Jean

Jean Haniquaut is a French ultra-runner and lover of mountains and outdoors activities. After 10 years of rock climbing, he discovered trail running and fell in love. He’s finished six 100 mile races in Europe. His fa...
17. August 2022
News

VMM 2022 Updates

VMM 2022 UPDATE For the ninth edition of Vietnam Mountain Marathon there are updates for many distances, alongside the all new VMM 100 miles. Here we provide an overview of the changes.  The 21K update For the first t...
16. August 2022
Interviews · News
How to survive the Vietnam Mountain Marathon 100 miles?

"Ultra runner and Topas team member Henrik Leth Jorgensen gives some advice based on his extensive ultra running experience."

28. July 2022
News

Updating The Vietnam Mountain Marathon 100 Miles Course

Over the last couple of months we’ve made a few adjustments to the VMM 100 Mile Course. Here Race Director David Lloyd explains some of the changes.   This year’s VMM 100 Miles will be the first ever 100 mile cou...
28. July 2022
News

100 Miles Tips from Ultra Running Veterans

With the first Vietnam Mountain Marathon 100 Miles approaching, multiple 100 miles finisher Ken Crouse, shares tips from fellow 100 miles veterans and offers some personal advice to help mountain runners prepare for t...
26. July 2022
Charity

Blue Dragon Kids Run Vietnam Trail Marathon

Among the many runners that took part in the Vietnam Trail Marathon this year, one group stood out in the crowd: the kids from Blue Dragon. Read on to learn why VTM is so important to them. The past year has been a tu...
23. June 2022
Interviews · News
Q&A: Nho Hoai – Vietnam Trail Marathon 70KM Ultra Champion

"Going from a stressed, quiet person, to an ultra runner full of life and enthusiasm."

23. May 2022
Charity · Interviews · News
Winners Crowned at Vietnam Trail Marathon in Harvest Season

"Today is my 38th birthday so I am very happy to win the race"

18. March 2022
Interviews
From Street Kid to CEO and Ultra Runner 

"We can only do this with support from the community. "

27. January 2022
Interviews
Nhon’s Project RUN100 For Operation Smile

"With running, I find myself changing every day, both physically and mentally."

14. December 2021
Others

2021 in Review

Despite the challenges posed this year, we were fortunate to organise one great race, push ahead with many charity projects, and develop our events. The running community has also been full of incredible feats. Here w...
13. December 2021
Charity

Lifesaving Equipment For Moc Chau

With funding from Vietnam Trail Marathon, Newborns Vietnam has just handed over new lifesaving equipment to Moc Chau General Hospital to help to ensure high quality care for mothers and babies.   Newborns Vietnam...
25. November 2021
Interviews
100 Miles in Soc Son

"If you want to go far, go together"

25. November 2021
Charity

UpRace 2021 – Virtual Run, Actual Impact

UpRace is a virtual run organised since 2018. For every kilometer run by the participants, the event sponsors will donate VND 1,000 to charity. With so many sport events postponed due to Covid-19, runners this year we...
25. November 2021
Charity

Blue Dragon Christmas Appeal

2021 has been a difficult year for many, but you can make the end of the year brighter for disadvantaged children and families throughout Vietnam through the Blue Dragon Christmas Appeal. For example, a donation of VN...
25. November 2021
Charity

Topas School Building Continues

Following the upgrades of Nam Lang B School, we began work on a new school project – the Ban Pho Primary School. Words and photos by Kien. The exterior of the old school building, before work began Ban Pho Prima...
22. September 2021
Charity

Topas Unites For Charity

Vietnam Trail Series and Topas Ecolodge have long supported the work of Blue Dragon, a charity which works with children and families in crisis.  Last weekend members of Team Topas in Hanoi, Sapa, Danang, Hoi An and a...
21. September 2021
Charity · Interviews
Blue Dragon Vi’s 72k Indoor Ultra

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15. September 2021
Interviews
Emma Pooley Q&A

"I simply love being in the mountains, and out in nature. The beauty of the surroundings is, literally, awe-inspiring. It makes me happy to be in those beautiful places."

8. September 2021
Charity

Saving Newborn Lives

Vietnam Trail Series races have been contributing to the work of Newborns Vietnam for some years. Here are some of the highlights from the past year along with the charity’s aims for the future. Words By Newborns Viet...
30. August 2021
Interviews
Trung’s Treadmill 160k+

"I’d like to send a message to my running friends that do not be discouraged by the lack of training or low volumes."

24. August 2021
Interviews
Q & A: Harry Jones

"When I started running on the trails it opened up another side to running that felt far more natural and exciting than running track ever had."

24. August 2021
Others

Lockdown Training

This month Quang Nguyen shares some of his home training tips for those currently unable to do their usual running outdoors. For the last two years, many sport events have been rescheduled due to the ongoing Covid-19 ...
19. August 2021
Interviews · News
Champ Fuel: Valentin’s Nutrition and Favourite Recipe

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18. August 2021
Charity

The Healing Power Of Running

Today, Binh* (*name changed for this article) is a happy member of the Blue Dragon Running Club. At 15 years old, he is a hardworking student who is full of energy, dreams,  and ambitions. Binh hopes for a better futu...
28. July 2021
News

Lockdown Ultra Art

During the lockdown, some runners who have been unable to do their usual miles have turned to other forms of expression. Multiple Vietnam Trail Series champ, Quang Tran, is one of them. His paintings about trail runni...
22. July 2021
Others

Nhon’s 14 day Lockdown Training Plan

With many runners in Vietnam currently unable to go outside to train, multiple race champion Đỗ Trọng Nhơn shares how he is training indoors.  (Please note that Nhon’s level of training is suitable for the more hardco...
22. July 2021
Interviews
Ha Thi Hau, VTS Champ

"Winning or losing in every race has to do a lot with my own efforts and perseverance."

20. July 2021
Charity · News

VJM Funds Water Safety Program

In Vietnam drowning is the leading cause of death in children. Over 2,000 children a year drown in Vietnam – more than any other country in South East Asia.  The drowning rate in Thanh Hoa, home of Vietnam Jungl...
24. June 2021
Interviews
Q & A: Simon Grimstrup – Everesting World Record Holder

"It is also important that you are really motivated! Motivated from the inside to do something that will put a big stress on your body. "

27. May 2021
News

VMM Route Updates

VMM 2021 will feature new routes and more trail, with the most significant updates in the first 30k of the 100k route and also the 42k route.  Last year we made significant updates to the final 42k of our 100km course...
24. May 2021
Charity

Topas funded charitable projects around Nam Cang

Since 2015, more than $32,550 has been donated to fund to various charitable projects around the Nam Cang area. Over the last six years, Topas has implemented more than 10 projects for the benefit of local communities...
20. May 2021
Charity

Smile Warriors on the VTM Trails

As of May 10, Operation Smile has raised VND374,707,716 from Vietnam Trail Marathon: the direct funds from Topas VTM 2021 (VND174,023,850) plus the funds raised by Smile Runners (VND200,683,866). This money will help ...
20. May 2021
Charity

Newborns Vietnam launches project funded by Vietnam Trail Marathon

The neonatal mortality rate in Son La Province (home of VTM) is currently twice the national average,  making this new project of vital importance. With the funding from Topas, training, equipment and outreach to remo...
19. May 2021
Interviews
Q & A with Valentin Orange, VTM Champ

"I signed up for VMM 42KM without knowing that it would change my life!"

17. May 2021
Charity

Blue Dragon Running Club at VTM 2021

Among the thousands of VTM runners this year there was a very special group of younger runners: 17 kids from the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation. They all finished strong, and two placed first and second in the 5km....
14. May 2021
News

NEW EVERESTING WORLD RECORD!

Simon Grimstrup has just smashed the World Record for Everesting, climbing 8,848m. He did it in a quite extraordinary 10h 45min, climbing and descending the same hill 202 times.     Many of you will remember Simo...
26. April 2021
News

Thousands race third edition of Vietnam Trail Marathon 2021

After being postponed due to Covid-19 in January, this Saturday thousands of Vietnam-based runners from 48 nations raced from 5k to 70km on trails through the orchards and tea fields of Moc Chau. Vietnam’s top homegro...
23. March 2021
Interviews
Q & A with Jasmin Paris – World Champ and Record Breaker

"ultra-races are a bit like a non-stop picnic, as long as you can keep eating, and are looking after yourself in terms of warmth and fluids, you can keep moving. "

22. February 2021
Charity

Sapa Awards Topas For Charitable Work

Since 2016, Topas Travel has worked on various charitable projects for the benefit of local communities in the Sapa area – work that has recently been formally recognised by the People’s Committee.  Over the las...
25. January 2021
Charity

VMM 2020 supports 50 Child Operations

Last month, funds from Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2020 were used to support Operation Smile Vietnam to provide facial surgery for 50 children born with facial deformities. The operation mission was organised from 14 De...
25. January 2021
News

Soc Son Ultra Battle

VMM runner Nicholas Prince runs 40 hours in Soc Son to raise funds to support The School on the Boat.   The run started at 5am on Friday 15 Jan and finished on Jan 16 – Nicholas’s birthday.  The full 40 hours co...
23. December 2020
News

Group Everesting in Vietnam

Last weekend a group of ultra-trail runners in Hanoi completed the Everesting challenge, which requires participants to do multiple repeat climbs of the same hill until they reach  8,848m elevation – the height ...
23. December 2020
Interviews
Nguyen Thuy Dung, VJM and VMM Champ

"The only secret to success, everyone knows, is training hard but to train hard requires a very high effort!"

3. December 2020
Charity

The Blue Dragon Running Club

The Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation set up its run club in July and has quickly grown under the direction of Vi, the charity’s Step Ahead Leader, with the kids recently conquering their first big challenge – V...
3. December 2020
Others

VTS Strava Club Leaders (22/11 – 28/11/2020)

Last week’s VTS Strava Club saw Nguyễn Minh Hải (Vietnam) leading both the distance and total running time boards. He ran 224.7 km in total time of nearly 21 hours. From United Kingdom, Sonny Tran scored second spot f...
3. December 2020
News

Vietnam Trail Series 2020 Champions Crowned

The 2020 Vietnam Trail Series champions were crowned in Sapa with Vietnamese runners coming out on top in the VTS Ultra Category. At Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2020 powered by Garmin the stage was set for a battle betw...
3. December 2020
News

VMM 2020 powered by Garmin Photo Contest

Here are the top 6 shots chosen chosen by the organisers from the photo contest submissions. One of these will earn A FREE SLOT at Vietnam Trail Marathon 2021 on 30/1. You can now vote for them at our fanpage here. &#...
25. November 2020
Charity

Charity from VMM 2020 powered by Garmin

Topas races have a strong charitable focus and hundreds of thousands of dollars have been donated to good causes since 2013. Up to now, Topas Vietnam Trail Series has given around US$ 300,000 to charity thanks to the ...
24. November 2020
News

VIETNAMESE VICTORIES IN THE MOUNTAINS OF SAPA

More than 2,200 runners raced up to 100km in Vietnam’s highest mountains at VMM 2020 Powered By Garmin this weekend. Vietnam’s top homegrown talent faced off with strong French expat competition, while celebrity runne...
18. November 2020
News

FRANCE AND VIETNAM FACE-OFF FOR VTS CHAMPIONSHIP

French and Vietnamese runners are set to go into battle for the overall 2020 Vietnam Trail Series Championship title.   Vietnam Trail Series 2020 Champs on stage The stage is set at the grand Vietnam Trail Series...
29. October 2020
News

Nguyen Thi Duong tops ATM and VTS rankings

After taking second place at VJM 2020 70k this October, Nguyen Thi Duong (Vietnam) is leading the 2020/21 Asia Trail Master (ATM) Championship, making her the first Vietnamese runner ever to achieve this. With the poi...
29. October 2020
Interviews
Q and A: Quang Nguyen

" Running is the simplest sport to enhance community health and bring a healthy lifestyle."

28. October 2020
Charity

Blue Dragon Charity Update – Freedom for Nga

This month Vietnam Trail Series charity beneficiary, Blue Dragon, share the story of Nga who Blue Dragon helped to free after seven years in captivity having been trafficked at the age of just 14.  The last time Nga w...
27. October 2020
News

A RECORD BREAKING VJM

After being postponed due to Covid-19 back in May, on Saturday 24 Oct almost 1,100 runners raced distances of up to 70k at the fourth edition of Vietnam Jungle Marathon. Despite the challenges presented by Covid-19 an...
19. October 2020
News

VJM 2020 Race Preview

 After being postponed due to Covid-19 back in May, this Saturday more than 1,100 will race up to 70km in stunning Pu Luong Nature Reserve. They include British Ambassador Gareth Ward and some of the nation’s top ultr...
23. September 2020
Charity

Blue Dragon kids train for VMM 2020 Powered by Garmin

The Topas team recently visited our charity partner Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation with Quang Nguyen, one of our trail stars, to inspire and train the young Blue Dragon team members who will join VMM 2020 Pow...
23. September 2020
Charity

Newborns Vietnam – A Year In Review

The charity Newborns Vietnam recently released an impact report on their work in 2019 – a year in which Vietnam Trail Series runners provided support through VTM and VMM.  Below are some of the highlights that t...
23. September 2020
Interviews
Đỗ Trọng Nhơn – VJM Champ

"With running, I only ‘get’ and do not ‘lose’ anything."

27. August 2020
News

Garmin Vietnam becomes VMM 2020 Presenting Partner

Having partnered with Garmin Vietnam for some years, it is with great pleasure that we now strengthen our ties with the world’s top sports watch brand to create Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2020 powered by Garmin.  Three...
25. August 2020
Charity

VMM Funds 35 Child Operations

VMM has been supporting Operation Smile for many years to fund their life-changing surgeries for children from the northern province of Lao Cai, home to our ultra mountain race.    Funds from Vietnam Mountain Mar...
25. August 2020
Interviews
Q & A with Champion, Quang Tran

"Given a functioning body, anyone can run - running is the simplest activity and an instinct of human beings."

20. July 2020
Charity

Drowning Prevention funded by VJM

Over 2000 children drown in Vietnam every year and the latest stats show Thanh Hoa Province Thanh Hoa province, which is home of Vietnam Jungle Marathon, has higher than average drowning figures. Our VJM charity partn...
20. July 2020
Interviews
Q and A with Tiểu Đường (Little Sugar), Vietnam Trail Series Ultra Champion

"Women should live for themselves more, spend more time for training, dare to be different and be brave to conquer new challenges."

17. July 2020
Charity

New bridge funded by Vietnam Trail Series

When we met with the local authorities back in June, Topas made a committment to construct a new bridge over a potentially complicated river crossing. Here is that bridge under construction and it’s current stat...
13. July 2020
News

Vietnam Trail Marathon 2021 is Open Now!

Join The VTM Third Edition  Join us to run the trail of Moc Chau through blossom filled orchards, tea plantations and crowds of warmly welcoming Moc Chau locals! We’ve also added a new 5km distance for 2021! 5...
18. June 2020
News

Relay Running The Length of Vietnam

10 Vietnamese runners including well known Vietnam Trail Series runners Nong Van Chuyen and Pham Tien San are currently running Vietnam in relay style to promote the beauty of the country and raise funds for Operation...
18. June 2020
News

Asia Trail Girls – Inspiring Women in Asia

A new running community ‘for trail runners, by trail runners; for women, by women’, Asia Trail Girls was recently founded by our Vietnam Jungle Marathon champ Veronika Vadovičová.  Asia Trail Girls (ATG) is a platform...
26. May 2020
News

New Topas Mountain Running Race Coming August 2020

While up at the Topas Riverside Lodge after lockdown ended, a plan was made for a new, intimate running race for around 150 people this summer.  Like all lovers of the great outdoors, our Hanoi-based team was very rea...
25. May 2020
Charity

Newborns News: Saving Lives Through Clean Hands

Covid-19 has made the world aware of the importance of proper handwashing and the protection it provides from infection and nowhere is this more important than protecting the lives of newborn babies. According to Newb...
20. May 2020
Interviews
Charmaine Thompson – A Multi-Talented Champion

"The main appeal of trail running is where it takes you"

28. April 2020
News

Lockdown Extreme Ultra: 165km INDOORS

Over in Malaysia, Japan’s Hisashi Kitamura, our Vietnam Jungle Marathon Champ, has been living in lockdown. Deprived of his ultra buzz, he took indoor running to its limit with 100miles in his garage on a 15m loop.  I...
22. April 2020
News

Topas Organic Pumpkin Soup

This month, Topas Exec Chef Christian Milling brings you the Organic Pumpkin Soup recipe our trail runners love at the Vietnam Trail Series finish lines.    Ingredients: – 1pc. Big organic garden pumpkin &#...
22. April 2020
News

The Home Runners

During the social distancing period, some are managing to fit in runs from 45 minutes right up to full marathons without leaving the home The rooftop marathon of Dat Nguyen was widely reported (see our article on his ...
20. April 2020
Interviews
Hisashi Kitamura, 2019 Vietnam Jungle Marathon Champ

"Pain is inevitable, but suffering is your choice"

6. April 2020
News

The Rooftop Marathoner

Dat Nguyen was already a very individual character before Sat April 4, but on that day he placed himself in a class of his own by running a full 42km on his rooftop.  The idea of running a rooftop marathon came to Dat...
31. March 2020
News

Book, Podcast and Film Recommendations

From the Topas Team and Our Runners   David Lloyd, Topas Group, Recommends Book: Feet In The Clouds, by Richard Askwith This book is part one man’s attempt at the Bob Graham Round, part history of fell (trail/mou...
25. March 2020
News

15 Stunning Vietnam Landscapes

The Vietnam Trail Series by Topas gives runners the chance to run the mountains, valleys, and tea fields of Vietnam’s beautiful northern regions. Vietnam Mountain Marathon, Vietnam Jungle Marathon and Vietnam Trail Ma...
25. March 2020
News

Photo Contest of International Happiness Day.

Here are the top shots alongside the winning entry in the Vietnam Trail Series happiness photo competition   The winner Big congratulations to Dinh Huu Toan for the happiest photo of running from from our Photo C...
25. March 2020
Interviews · News
Nutrition with Christian – Immune Boosting Super Bowl

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24. March 2020
Charity

On The Front Line – Blue Dragon

Our charity partner Blue Dragon faces significant challenges during this pandemic, but their vital work must continue. In the last weeks their work has included providing homes for 21 more homeless children in Hanoi a...
24. February 2020
News

VTM 2020 Company Cup Winners

Two well known companies in Vietnam took the Company Cup Honours at VTM – Shopee and Hong Ngoc.  At every Vietnam Trail Series race, Topas awards two company cups: one for the top performance of a club overall (...
24. February 2020
Charity

VTS supports Newborns Vietnam

Since 2017 Vietnam Trail Series has proudly supported Newborns Vietnam with more than US$63,000 – funds raised directly from runners. Here is just some of what they achieved in 2019 and why we support their great work...
21. February 2020
News

VMM is ATM Super Trail

This year VMM will be the Asia Trail Master (ATM) Super Trail here in Vietnam, meaning extra points are on offer.  The SuperTrail label means all finishers on the two longest distance categories will receive 50 bonus ...
20. February 2020
Others

Mastering Downhill Running

Following Jcy Ho’s recent popular article on overcoming downhill fear, Henrik Leth Jorgensen provides more tips for those hoping to improve downhill running technique Non-technical downhill intervals You might not hav...
20. February 2020
Interviews
Veronika Vadovičová, 2019 Vietnam Jungle Marathon Champ

"Pain goes away, the body heals, but the feeling of getting it done and crossing the finish line is what stays forever"

16. January 2020
Charity

VTM supports Blue Dragon in 2020

At VTM we supported Blue Dragon with funds from the race – funds raised directly from runners. Here is just some of what they achieved in 2019 and why we support their great work. In 2019 Blue Dragon rescued 107 victi...
31. December 2019
News

2019 In Strava Club Numbers

Some members of the Vietnam Trail Series Strava Club posted some very impressive annual stats – here we take a look at the mileage and gain of some of our champs. What did you run in 2019 and what are your plans...
20. December 2019
News

VTM2020: Top Ten Company Teams

At Vietnam Trail Marathon 2020, there are more than 100 run clubs signed up, including many corporate run club teams who will have the chance to win our two Company Cup Challenges – the  Distance Challenge Cup a...
17. December 2019
Interviews
Vanja Cnops, 2019 Vietnam Trail Series Champion

"Trail runs are a unique chance to see remote natural places. "

16. December 2019
Charity

Blue Dragon charity partnership

We are proud to announce that at Vietnam Trail Marathon 2020 we will partner with Blue Dragon alongside our existing charity partners.  Blue Dragon has been working in Vietnam for 15 years to end human trafficking and...
16. December 2019
Others

Strava Club Leaders (9/12-15/12)

Last week’s Strava Club saw Run Tokyo leading both the distance and total running time boards. He ran 179.8 km in total time of nearly 25 hours. Vietnam’s own Huong Tran scored second spot for total run time with over...
9. December 2019
Others

Strava Club Leaders (2/12 – 8/12/2019)

Last week’s Strava club saw some very impressive runs in terms of distance and gain stats. Brazil’s AdeiltonBR VS ran the most KMs with 214km, while RunningVERT Trail Runner clocked 7,689m of vertical in 7 days. In te...
5. December 2019
News

VMM 2019 Highlight Video

Have you seen the new Vietnam Mountain Marathon video? Check it out below and see if you can spot yourself on the trails!
4. December 2019
Others

Strava Club Leaders (25/11-1/12/2019)

Last week’s Strava club saw some very impressive distance and gain stats. Vietnam’s own Kien Nguyen ran the most KMs with 194.2km, while in Hong Kong Leo Hui conquered the equivalent of Mount Everest with 8,857m of ve...
3. December 2019
News

VMM 2020 Early Bird Open For Registration

The seventh edition of Vietnam Mountain Marathon is NOW OPEN. Sign up for the nation’s original trail running festival weekend! 10k | 15k | 21k | 42k | 70k | 100k RACE: 19-20 / 09 / 2020
21. November 2019
Interviews · News
Essential Nutrients and Minerals: Calcium

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20. November 2019
Others

Overcoming Downhill Fear

Despite winning VMM 70k and other races, Jcy Ho is not a fan of running downhill. Here she explains how she has worked with her weakness together with help from John Ellis to start addressing it. To be honest, I am st...
20. November 2019
Interviews
Jcy Ho – From Last to Winner in 4 years

"Be your own inspiration! Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses, and we will never be the same! "

23. October 2019
Interviews
Q&A with Mads Louring

"I love the solitude and being in the nature where it's quiet. It's a form of medicine for me and it takes my mind off things."

23. October 2019
Others

To pole or not to pole?

Do you run with poles? Henrik Leth Jorgensen does….. sometimes. Here he explains what factors should be considered and also gives some advice on choosing the correct pole type.  There are several things to consider be...
22. October 2019
Interviews
Why do you love ultra mountain running?

"The transcendence! All the feelings you pass through to do it: happiness, excitation, solitude, the physical and psycho pain. "

9. October 2019
News

VMM2019 Company Cup Winners

Congratulations to team Shopee for winning the first ever VMM Company Distance Cup. The Shopee team ran more kilometers than any other company run club at VMM 2019. The Shopee team not only race together, they train t...
2. October 2019
News

Vietnam Trail Series 2019 Winners

The first ever Vietnam Trail Series champions were crowned in Sapa following VMM. The winners were Jakob Lundsager & Kari Lundsage (Challenge); Trịnh Nam Hải & Vanja Cnops (Marathon); and Nguyễn Tiến Hùng &...
2. October 2019
Charity

VMM2019 Charity

Around US$50k was added to our Vietnam Trail Series charity fundraising at VMM bringing the total to $250,000. VMM funds were split between local projects in Sapa, Newborns Vietnam and Operation Smile.
23. September 2019
News

Vietnamese runner won two consecutive VMM 100k races

The winner of the men’s 100k was Nguyen Tien Hung of Vietnam who finished in a total time of 14:33:45. Hung broke his record of last year (14:45:44) and became the first runner to win two consecutive VMM 100k races. T...
9. September 2019
News

How to choose the best trail running shoes

Cushioning/Cushioned With the main function is to minimize the injury, increase the responsiveness and optimize the comfort of many innovative cushioning technologies which suitable with the runner demands Traction Tr...
3. September 2019
News

The rise of the Vietnamese ultra runner

A recent article on Saigoneer takes a look at the rapid rise of home-grown talent here in Vietnam, a nation which until recently had no ultra trail runners but now sees the podiums filled with Vietnam’s talent. An ext...
22. August 2019
Charity

Topas Charity Tops US$250,000

The total amount raised via the Vietnam Trail Series has recently gone over US$250,000! Funds have been used for many local projects along our race courses, alongside national charities including Newborns Vietnam and ...
20. August 2019
Interviews
Francesca Canepa, UTMB Champ

"I highly recommend not to follow anybody else and just stay tuned in to your own feelings and inspirations."

20. August 2019
News

8 Trail Running Tips

This month multiple Vietnam Trail Series podium finisher and potential VTS 2019 Champion Quang Nguyen brings you advice on how to become a better trail runner. 1.About 80% of your running week should be easy runs. Run...
17. July 2019
Others

Stretching for performance and injury prevention

Most runners know that stretching should be part of the recovery routine but often it’s done incorrectly, too quickly or not regularly. Flavia Breu (BSc Physiotherapy Switzerland) explains why stretching is important ...
16. July 2019
Charity

Drowning prevention

In Vietnam over 2,000 children drown every year – more than any other country in South East Asia. The drowning rate in Thanh Hoa is higher than many provinces in Vietnam. The latest statistics available from the Minis...
28. June 2019
News

Everesting Vietnam

Last weekend, Quang Tran, a champ of Vietnam Mountain Marathon and Vietnam Trail Marathon, did his first Everesting challenge which requires participants to do multiple repeat climbs of the same hill until they reach ...
27. June 2019
Charity

VJM supports Operation Smile

Funds from Vietnam Jungle Marathon 2019 were recently used to support the June mission of Operation Smile Vietnam which has brought smiles to about 113 patients out of 201 screened patients including 42 from Thanh Hoa...
26. June 2019
Others

Learning from a DNF – Coming Back Stronger

On May 25 2019 Quang Nguyen stood on the podium at Vietnam Jungle Marathon – a race that last year saw him DNF. Here, he explains how he learned from that experience, adapted his training and came back a stronge...
26. June 2019
Interviews
Q & A – Multiple Champion, Fredelyn Alberto

"Running helps people respect each other, no matter what their status."

3. June 2019
News

VMM2019 for Saturday sold out.

All VMM run only slots for Saturday are sold out. We still have a very limited number of slots including Topas Ecolodge or Sapa Hotels. Sunday’s 10k, 15k and 21k still have slots available. Book here.
29. May 2019
Charity · News

VJM Charity with Operation Smile

VJM2019 raised VND 317,515,000 for Operation Smile Vietnam. With this money 31 children from Thanh Hoa Province will have life changing surgery in Hanoi in June. More news of the operations will follow soon. Thank you...
29. May 2019
News

VJM – Battle of Champions

On Saturday 25 May runners from 46 nations raced distances up to 70km at the third edition of Vietnam Jungle Marathon. It was a magnificent day for the jungle battle of champions and also a day of triumph for less exp...
29. May 2019
News

Ultra Wedding Proposal

“Will you marry me?”…… “YES!” Here’s the magic moment of the VJM marriage proposal! Congratulations to the great couple again from Team Topas!
21. May 2019
News

VJM2019 Contenders

In the men’s 70km distance race, The winner and second place runners of VMM 100k 2018, Nguyen Tien Hung (Vietnam) and Hisashi Kitamura (Japan) will be facing off again at VJM. Hung is a hot favourite for any race he e...
21. May 2019
News

VTS race packs go green

Step one in our greenest ever race pack: your t shirts are NOT individually wrapped in plastic packs. Great to work with Gac Ba on this green initiative. Step two: race kit bags are made from corn starch which is biod...
23. April 2019
Charity · News

Topas Supports Newborns Run

Topas Team together with VMM veteran Quang Nguyen, VMM MC Thuy Dung, ‘Marathon Photographer’ Hieu Nguyen, the Running Journalist Dat Nguyen plus our partner California Fitness & Yoga Centers Vietnamhelped organise...
23. April 2019
Others

Common training mistakes

This month David Lloyd and Henrik Leth Jorgensen join forces to bring you their list of seven common training errors. Henrik Leth Jorgensen on trails 1. Training through fatigue or injury Having signed up for an tough...
22. April 2019
Interviews
Q & A with Henrik Leth Jørgensen

"Ultrarunning and adventure racing is largely a mental challenge."

22. April 2019
Interviews
Q & A with Aroonnapa Panichjaroon

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1. April 2019
News

VJM goes 260km!

Vietnam Jungle Marathon will add the mega distance 260km trail this year. Only 26 people can enter. Registration opens APRIL 1 Register here Those who want something a little shorter can also now opt for the new 10k d...
1. April 2019
News

Strava Club winner announcement

The results of the March VTS Strava Club Challenge are in and the winner is from right here in Vietnam! Tran Toan clocked an incredible 646 km in the four weeks of the challenge. He wins a free entry to the Vietnam Tr...
28. March 2019
News

UTMB Winner to light up VMM

Arguably the world’s best ultra trail runner, 2018 UTMB champion Francesca Canepa will join the Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2019. Following her victory in the world championship of trail running, UTMB, Francesca Canepa ...
28. March 2019
Others

Runner’s Strength training with California Fitness

Alongside run training, strength training will help you to become a better competitor and reduce the risk of injury. Here, California Fitness share some top exercises to improve your overall run fitness. Thanh Vu, one...
27. March 2019
News

Strava Club Challenge update

The Vietnam Trail Series Strava Club challenge will finish on March 31 with the person clocking the most KMs winning a free slot for VJM 2019, VMM 2019 or VTM 2020. We have almost 1,100 VTS Strava Club members now. Go...
26. March 2019
Charity · News

Newborns Vietnam at Garmin Run Hanoi by Topas

On 24 Mar 2019, Newborns had a team of neonatal medical staff including six nurses who ran their first 5 km at Garmin Run Hanoi by Topas.  These nurses are studying on the new Newborns course at VNCH taught by Edinbur...
21. March 2019
News

New Race! VJM 10km

BIG NEWS! VJM now has a 10k! Just 200 slots, so sign up fast! 100 run only, 100 package places available now. 100 run slots at $69 100 special package slots at $169 ($20 discount) Package includes: Run + Travel to/fro...
27. February 2019
Others

Planting season – Pu Luong

This month’s photos come from Sam Wilson who spent Tet (Lunar New Year) in Pu Luong, land of Vietnam Jungle Marathon. During February the planting of rice takes place giving this stunning area an entirely different lo...
27. February 2019
Others

Three Top Tips for Ultra Running Success

Whether it's 70km, 100km, 100 miles or more, ultra running, ultra trails, especially those on trails and mountains, are proving hugely popular. So what do you need to know about taking part in an ultra-running? This m...
27. February 2019
Interviews
Q & A: Moritz auf der Heide

"I just loved the nature, the food and the people in Vietnam, so it is a must to come back!"

27. February 2019
Charity · News

Newborns Vietnam signs landmark agreement

VMM charity partner Newborns Vietnam has signed a new five-year agreement with the Hanoi Department of Health, Hanoi Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital (OBGY), Vietnam National Children’s Hospital (VNCH), St Paul Hos...
27. February 2019
News

Strava Club Challenge

March sees the first Vietnam Trail Series Strava Club Challenge. The rules are simple: The person with the most kilometers in March wins a VTS race entry. Challenge Time: Mar 4 – Mar 31 March is a great time for...
19. February 2019
News

VMM continues as UTMB qualifier

Vietnam Mountain Marathon will once again be a UTMB qualifying race this year. VMM2019 runners will receive the following points: 100km = 4 points 70km = 3 points 42km = 2 points We wish you the very best of luck for ...
30. January 2019
News

VTM2019 ’s Results: 1,900 runners conquer trails of beautiful Moc Chau

On 19 Jan 2019 almost 1,900 runners from 39 nations, including Miss Vietnam 1994 Thu Thuy, Triple7Quest Chau Smith, musician Huy Tuan and Vietnam ‘s top ultra runners raced distances up to 70km in the first edition of...
28. January 2019
News

VTS Points and Rules

VTM is part of our Vietnam Trail Series together with VJM and VMM. Runners get points for these races and at the end of the year at VMM we will crown our VTS Champions in the ultra, marathon and challenge categories. ...
10. January 2019
Interviews
Q&A: Chau Smith

"Be reasonable with what you think you can accomplish.  Start with the shorter runs and work up to longer ones. "

9. January 2019
News

VTM2019 70km Men Contenders

At VTM 2019, two of Vietnam’s best ultra runners, Tran Duy Quang and Cao Ngoc Ha, will go head to head for the first time on trail since VMM 2017 when Quang became VMM 100k champion. Prior to that, Ha won the in...
25. December 2018
Others

Butterfly river

VJM 2019 will take place at the same time of year as the first edition, in May, when the fields are full of activity during the golden harvest season and huge numbers of butterfly dance in the air! Your Shot this mont...
25. December 2018
Others

Get Ready for Race Day

Up to four weeks before a race athletes enter the reduction phase of training load known as the taper. Here Elite Fitness explain one approach to this crucial phase of race preparation. Evidence of the efficacy of a t...
25. December 2018
Interviews
Ultra Champion, Jo Meek

"A beautiful trail does not become a race without some very dedicated and organised people who are willing to put the event on. "

14. December 2018
News

Elite Fitness partners with VTM

We are proud to welcome Elite Fitness as Official Fitness Partner for Vietnam Trail Marathon 2019. Founded in 2010, Elite Fitness – an international standard fitness chain led by BIM Group – has opened 15 ...
11. December 2018
Charity

100 Newborns KM in Torrential Rain

Over the weekend, Danang’s Huy Doan, a VMM finisher, attempted his Kiss Ultra 200 challenge, a 200km run to raise fund for Newborns Vietnam. He started at 8am on Saturday and aimed to finish on the Sunday. About 100 r...
4. December 2018
News

New VMM Video launches early bird

VMM 2019 EARLY BIRD now OPEN! Join us for 10|15|21|42|70|100k. New trails added for 2019.
28. November 2018
News

VMM routes updated

VMM 2019 will have lots of new trail sections from CP3 to CP7 and we are very happy with the beautiful new routes we’ve set. You can look forward to more trail, more elevation, more stunning views… and more painful mu...
28. November 2018
News

Running Academy

With the goal of connecting runners of all levels, Running Academy offers sessions every Saturday morning from 8am to 11am at UFC GYM, 3rd Floor, Thao Dien Pearl, 12 Quoc Huong Street, District 2. At Running Academy, ...
28. November 2018
Others

Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain)

Dr. Andres Sosa of Family Medical Practice Hanoi explains the common causes and treatment for runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain. Causes The knee is a complex structure and is very sensitive. A number of...
28. November 2018
Others

Race together

We love @watwat_edward ’s two pics showing how runners enjoy the race together. From pre-race race kit collection to completion of their trail challenge, these runners were in it together. We also love the pic of stun...
28. November 2018
Others

Nguyen Viet Hoa Runs South East Asia

This month’s epic run comes from Nguyen Hoa Viet and is truly deserving of the title ‘epic’ as it spans five countries and will take over two months to complete. VMM veteran Nguyen Hoa Viet (Zí) is running across Sout...
28. November 2018
Others

Get faster with Strava

Technology has made its way into running with watches that can measure many metrics. One of the most fun tools to get the most from your GPS is Strava’s segment function. Segments are stretches of road or trail on Str...
28. November 2018
Interviews
Q and A: Nguyen Tien Hung, VMM 100km Champ

"Preparation and listening to your body are key for all runners, not only for running 100km but even 5km; "

27. November 2018
News

VTM Almost Sold Out

We are happy to announce that following some large group bookings Vietnam Trail Marathon is now almost sold out! We have a small number of number of run only slots available and a very limited number of run + hotel pa...
15. November 2018
News

VMM to go higher in 2019

VMM 2019 will have new sections for 100km, 70km, 42km and 21km runners. Those running 42km or more should prepare to run higher than ever before in Vietnam!
13. November 2018
News

VJM continues as UTMB qualifier

Vietnam Jungle Marathon will once again be a UTMB qualifying race this year. VJM2019 runners will receive the following points: 70km = 3 points 55km = 2 points 42km = 2 points 25km = 1 points We wish you the very best...
13. November 2018
News

UTMB points for VTM

Good news for all Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® (UTMB)  points seekers – Vietnam Trail Marathon is now an official UTMB qualifying race! The points are the following: 70 Km = 3 points 42 Km = 2 points This is not just a ...
30. October 2018
Others

Double Century

Each month we select runs (not races) from our Strava Club which are epic in terms of distance, elevation or both. This month two runners from Vietnam completed 100k sessions, with Hoang Van Dzung running 100,5 km in ...
30. October 2018
Others

Blind runner on VMM trail

This month we have selected many VMM photos, but the story of blind runner, Hock Bee Ong, is our featured story. Here it is in his own words: “I am a blind runner, with zero light perception; but I wish to share with ...
30. October 2018
Others

Go to the next level

Henrik Leth Jorgensen is an adventure racer and ultra runner, former Danish national orienteering team member, and coach of athletes from beginner to national team level. Here he provides tips on three areas you can i...
30. October 2018
Interviews
Evelyn Lek – Rapid Rise to Ultra Victory

"The longer distance I run, it allows me to enter into that place and explore myself and explore my mind and body on actually how far I can go!"

16. October 2018
Others

Running in the heat

Some tips on how to run in the heat by David Lloyd, Simon Grimstrup and Cao Ngoc Ha
26. September 2018
Charity · News

VMM18 supports Newborns and Sapa causes

Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2018 raised more than VND846.000.000 ($US36,700) directly from runners to support Newborns Vietnam and local projects around the Sapa VMM route. Thank you to all the runners who made it happen!
20. September 2018
Charity · News

VMM Supports Newborns Vietnam!

  Funds from VMM2017 were recently used to fund the Neonatal Care and Resuscitation Training Programme in Lao Cai Obstetrics and NewbornsUnit. Funds from #VMM2018 will continue to make life-saving work possible! ...
15. September 2018
News

VMM2018 Ultra Distance Contenders

Ultra distances champions from around the world with be racing on the trails of Sa Pa for the title of 100km champion. Home-grown talent, Nguyen Minh Tuan, Vietnam Jungle Marathon champion, faces extremely strong comp...
30. August 2018
Interviews
Q and A: Nathalie Cochet

"Running has many benefits including persistence, discipline, and determination to take new challenges."

29. August 2018
Others

14 hour loop challenge

Each month we select runs (not races) from our Strava Club which are epic in terms of distance, elevation or both. This month, VMM2018 100k runner, Yen Vu, completed her 14 ½ hour running challenge with 100km around H...
29. August 2018
Others

“Pho” on the trail!

One of the best things about running here in Vietnam is fueling for the run … and then re-fueling afterwards. The national dish, pho, is fantastic energy food that tastes even better after some hard kilometers. Howeve...
22. August 2018
Others

VMM Chill

This month’s shot comes from VMM 70km runner @michiausdemerzgebirge via Instagram. We love this image as we think it sums up how a lot of people feel after finishing a very tough run! For a chance to have your photo f...
22. August 2018
Others

Giles Lever’s 50 for 50

Each month we select a run (not a race) from within the VMM and VJM Strava Club which is epic in terms of distance, elevation or both.
22. August 2018
News

Going Green with Hammer Nutrition Products

At VJM we like to be green not only in colour, but also environmentally. Water at our races has always been served in 20L bottles from which runners must refill. This year we are very pleased to have our electrolyte a...
22. August 2018
News

Recovery Green Smoothie by La Holista

In time of nutritional depletion after a run, your system is at its most absorbent and this is the best time for getting the right nutrients in. For the perfect recovery drink, just add the following ingredients in th...
22. August 2018
News

Free Entry to Running Academy by CFYC

The running Academy is an open community for all runners, aiming to allow not only California Fitness & Yoga Members but also every Vietnamese person to run faster and injury free by providing expertise, experienc...
18. August 2018
Others

The Superman Feeling at the start line

After your varied training, with lots of slow runs, some fast runs, some intervals and some long runs, tapering is the most important thing to succeed on race day and get the most out of your training. Here Simon Grim...
30. July 2018
Others

Avoiding injury for newbies

We know that for a lot of people VMM 10k and 15k will be the first experience of racing. Therefore this month Simon Grimstrup took some time out from his guiding in Tanzania to look at how newbies can avoid running in...
29. July 2018
Others

Tuning up for VMM

This month we feature 3 epic group running challenges from across Vietnam in preparation for VMM 2018.
29. July 2018
Interviews
Q and A – Masami Nakamura

"When I become 70 years old in 2020, I’d like to try the first 70 km in my life on the trail"

27. July 2018
Others

Stunning terraced rice fields

This month’s image comes from VMM 70km runner @paxtonvisuals via Instagram.
30. June 2018
Interviews
Q&A with Tieu Phuong Nguyen

"I believe that when you prioritize something, you definitely find your time for it and for me, my priority is the sport."

30. June 2018
Others

Training by Heart Rate – A Beginner’s Guide

Training with heart rate can be a great tool to make your training more efficient. For this month's Training Tips, our resident coach, Simon Grimstrup, explains how to use heart rate and why, for trail, it can be more...
29. June 2018
Others

Miraculous sunrise on The Beast

This month’s image comes from VJM2018 70km runner @thuybuisvtt via Instagram. It is a #throwback to VJM2018 when runners were treated to a miraculous sunrise on The Beast peak. This is definitely a photo that sums up ...
28. June 2018
Others

Ecopark Running by Night

Each month we select a run (not a race) from within the VMM and VJM Strava Club which is epic in terms of distance, elevation or both.
29. May 2018
Interviews · News
Running Recipe: Homemade ‘nice cream’, by La Holista

"After a long training session, we all feel like we could use a good treat. But if you are trying to get to your ideal race weight or keep your body healthy, desserts can be a slippery slope. What if I told you that you can have a delicious ice cream that is creamy, refreshing and always at hand?"

29. May 2018
Interviews
Q and A – Ambassador Giles Lever

"Trail running requires much stronger quad muscles than road running"

29. May 2018
Others

Learn from experience – Speed up your progress

Many runners are now between major trail race targets with VJM behind them and VMM ahead. Therefore our resident coach, Simon Grimstrup, takes a look at how to capitalise on your experience and improve ready for the n...
28. May 2018
Others

Son Tra Sundown

Two monster runs from our Strava Club this month - one from Vietnam, another on Tenerife.
28. May 2018
News

VMM long distances sold out!

While our long distance races have sold out, we still have 10km and 15km slots available. You can sign up for those here. We also have some Sapa Packages with accommodation, transport and meals available. If you’d lik...
27. May 2018
Others

The story of a runner’s wife

This month’s image comes from VJM2018 70km runner @happilyevertravels via Instagram. We love his wife’s story behind the ultra marathon of Dayna and believe that this is also the story of many runners after the heat o...
30. March 2018
Interviews
Q & A: Trang Hạ – The running writer

"When I move on my feet, the world seems to become more friendly"

29. March 2018
Others

Vibrant VMM T-shirt colour

This month’s image comes from VMM2014/2015/2016 runner @seven.nguyen.16 via Facebook.
28. March 2018
News

Carb-loading done right

Get ready for race day with this wholesome rice salad by Chiara Squinzi of La Holista
22. March 2018
Others

Training Guidelines for Success

This month’s training tips come from David Greenfield Master Trainer of California Fitness and Yoga, former national triathlete, bike fitter and much more besides.
21. March 2018
Charity · News

VMM Charity with Newborns Vietnam

On behalf of VMM runners yesterday Topas Travel and Newborns Vietnam presented oxygen saturation units to the Obstetrics and Newborn Unit at Lao Cai hospital. Newborns Vietnam is currently providing neonatal training ...
15. March 2018
Charity · News

70 Operation Smile surgeries funded

Topas Travel ‘s staff joined the mission to bring smiles to about 70 patients with Operation Smile Vietnam, organized on 12 – 16 March 2018 at Vietnam Cuba Hospital, Ha Noi. It’s the result of nearly 70 Operation Smil...
28. February 2018
Interviews
Q & A – Kim Jisub, South Korea’s trail speed machine

"The trail offered a unique opportunity I’ve never experienced before"

28. February 2018
News

Running Recipe: Pre long run breakfast by La Holista

The best way to fuel a long run (longer than 1 hour) is to start with the right fuel in your tank. A good mix of slow release carbs (oats), fast release carbs (fruits), protein, and fats (nuts and plant-based milk) wi...
28. February 2018
Others

New Year of The Dog

This month’s image comes from VMM2018 70km & VJM2018 42km runner @nntien via Facebook.  To welcome the New Year of The Dog, he ran 16.44km to create the image of a dog to wish for a year of health, runs and races....
27. February 2018
Others

Training Tips – Hill Training in the Flatlands

Last month we had a question from Hanoi’s Sole Sisters run group about how to train for the hills when living in a flat city like Hanoi. Here our resident coach, Simon Grimstrup, gives his top tips.
27. February 2018
Others

Strava Art from Japan

Each month we select a run (not a race) from within the VMM and VJM Strava Club which is epic in terms of distance, elevation or both.
30. January 2018
Others

Ha’s Hanoi back-to-back

Each month we’ll be featuring a training run (not a race!) from within the VMM and VJM Strava Club which we consider to be epic!
29. January 2018
Others

How to Developing Trail Running Speed – Simon Grimstrup

This month our resident coach, Simon Grimstrup, gives his tips on getting faster feet on the trails
29. January 2018
News

Nutrition – Energy Balls

To help you fuel for the trails we have a favourite running recipe from Kim Matthews, who says: “One snack I like making are energy balls, mostly because they taste great, but also because there are endless combinatio...
28. January 2018
Interviews
Q and A with Kim Matthews

"Remember to enjoy the experience, because no doubt you will meet wonderful people and be surrounded by incredible scenes that will stay with you for a lifetime!"

27. November 2017
Charity · News

Great news from Operation Smile!

During VMM 2017 Operation Smile‘s Huong Giang met a young H’mong boy in Sapa town who was in need of facial surgery. Topas Travel’s staff then worked with Operation Smile to bring the boy and his fam...
26. June 2017
Charity · News

VMBM wheelchairs presented

Great news! Today we presented 15 wheelchairs bought with funds from VMBM and Topas Travel to people who live near our race routes. We worked with the Red Cross to identify people in need. Thank you again to all the r...
14. December 2016
Interviews
10 Questions with Tran Duy Quang

"VMM 100km is really tough, but very worth the effort. "

16. October 2016
Interviews
10 Questions with Cao Ngoc Ha

"Before starting full marathon running, I was just a normal person"