The 2^nd Da Nang Barefoot Run took place at the Bien Dong (East Sea) Park in Son Tra District yesterday.

A total of around 5,000 amateur runners of all ages took part in the 2km, 5km and 10km races along the beautiful My Khe Beach.  Participants included runners from across the country, international visitors to Da Nang, and more than 50 Clipper Race crew members. 

The Clipper Race crew members gathered early on the beach and chatted with local residents, often having their photos taken with them.  A representative of the Clipper Race runners, Mr Jonathan Levy from the UK, said that the warm welcome the Clipper Race fleet had received from the city’s authorities and residents has helped them to feel part of the city.  He remarked that the fleet’s 10-day stay in the city would help the crew members to rest and relax after their 28 days at sea.

The start of the 2km race

The first 3 finishers in the 2km race were Pham Ngoc Quang, Doan Thanh Huy and Phillip Stickler.  The top 3 places in the 5km race went to Robert Wraith, Ash Dorrington and Le Tan Dinh, whilst in the 10km event Ngo Dang Thanh, Nguyen Dang Dung and Le Tan Lam took those places.

Winner Pham Ngoc Quang finishes the 2km race

Initiated by the municipal People's Committee Chairman Huynh Duc Tho, the event aims to advertise the beauty of the city's beaches and encourage people to do more physical exercise. 

It was also part of the series of activities organised to welcome the Clipper Race fleet which continues until they depart on Saturday 27 February. 

The Barefoot Run is expected to be held annually to attract more tourists to the city.