Ultra trail on happiness road

The seventh edition of the “Running on the Happiness Road” ultra trail race 2026 took place on the Dong Van Karst Plateau, attracting 1,500 athletes, including 38 international runners from 13 countries. Starting at 4 a.m. in the center of Meo Vac Commune, participants embarked on a challenging journey across rugged terrain characterized by sharp limestone formations, with seven race distances ranging from 6 km to 70 km.

Harsh weather conditions, including early morning rain that made the trails slippery and intense midday heat, added to the difficulty of the race. Shorter distances of 6 km and 12 km guided runners along the Happiness Road and nearby villages, while longer distances, such as 21 km, 25 km, and 42 km required advanced technique, endurance, and race strategy as athletes tackled Ma Pi Leng Pass and constantly shifting terrain. The 70 km category, considered the ultimate challenge, stretched across iconic landmarks including the Nho Que River, White Cliff, and remote highland villages.

Athletes compete in the “Running on the Happiness Road” ultra trail race.

In the men’s 70 km event, Vang A Tung claimed first place with a time of 9 hours 44 minutes and 44 seconds. In the women’s 70 km category, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Anh secured victory with a time of 11 hours 18 minutes and 19 seconds. Beyond a test of endurance and determination, the race offered a unique experience that blended sport with the exploration of nature and local culture, contributing to the promotion of the UNESCO Global Geopark Dong Van Karst Plateau and boosting local tourism development.

Thu Phuong