The event saw esteemed guests including Mr. Nguyen Hong Minh, Deputy Director of the Department of Sports and Physical Training; Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Huong, Head of the Propaganda Department of Nghe An Provincial Party Committee; Mr. Nguyen Van Ba, Editor-in-Chief of VietNamNet Newspaper; Ms. Tran Thi My Hanh, Director of the Department of Culture and Sports of Nghe An; and Ms. Pham Thi Kim Dung, Director of Win Vietnam Company Limited, alongside thousands of athletes and tourists from across the nation, congregating at Binh Minh Square, Cua Lo Town.

In his address, Mr. Nguyen Van Ba underscored the profound significance of the 2024 Journey to Lotus Village Marathon. He emphasized that the event not only fosters physical well-being among participants but also serves as a platform for showcasing courage and resilience while immersing in the rich culture and scenic landscapes of Nghe An. Moreover, it unites running enthusiasts nationwide, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared passion.

Ms. Tran Thi My Hanh, Director of Nghe An Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the marathon as a culturally significant sports and tourism extravaganza, aligned with the Lotus Village Festival 2024. The event aims to spotlight Nghe An's cultural and natural splendors to both domestic and international tourists, while also championing the spirit of active living promoted by the "All people exercise following the example of Uncle Ho" campaign and the "Olympic Running Day for the health of all people" movement.

The 2024 Journey to Lotus Village Marathon boasts participation from over 3,200 athletes, including 28 international contenders, competing across four distances: 42km, 21km, 10km, and 5km.

Ms. Tran Thi My Hanh expressed hopes that athletes partaking in the marathon would compete with solidarity, integrity, and a noble spirit, thereby enriching the cultural fabric of sports.

Highlighted moments from the opening ceremony: