* Congratulations on securing Gia Lai’s first gold of 2026. How do you feel?
I still feel elated, much like the first times Phạm Thị Hồng Lệ achieved major results. I would like to sincerely thank the leaders of the sports sector, technical departments and running enthusiasts who have supported us and created favourable conditions for training and competition.
* Does this success reflect the benefits of long-term preparation before the competition?
Training and adapting to the track and weather conditions at the venue are crucial, especially in the marathon. It allows us to build strategies and calculate suitable approaches, helping athletes understand the course and manage energy effectively. Lessons from previous competitions also helped us prepare better for this event.
* With an experienced athlete like Hồng Lệ, what concerns remain?
I have great confidence in my athlete, but competition is always evolving. Rivals such as Hoàng Thị Ngọc Hoa (Đồng Nai) and Lê Thị Tuyết (Đắk Lắk), along with other emerging athletes, are all aiming for top results. I always remind Lệ to strictly follow the strategy, as even a moment of overexcitement can lead to failure.
* Is that why Hồng Lệ allowed Hoàng Thị Ngọc Hoa to lead for the first 38km before making her move?
Exactly. We carefully studied each opponent and developed a suitable race plan. What pleased me most was that Hồng Lệ remained composed and executed the strategy precisely.
* Her time of 2:42:06 set a new National Sports Games record. Was this expected?
In such demanding conditions, it is difficult to predict outcomes, especially in a coastal province in central Vietnam where sun and wind are significant challenges.
I was still concerned. Before the race, Lệ aimed to surpass Nguyễn Thị Oanh’s national record of 2:39:49 set in 2024, but I advised against taking unnecessary risks after previous setbacks.
*You have worked with Hồng Lệ for over 13 years. What has that journey been like?
It has been a stroke of luck. I had excellent mentors, and I discovered Hồng Lệ at a grassroots competition. Now, she is at the peak of her career. My role is to support, encourage and discuss technical matters with her. She is highly disciplined and trains daily, even during the Lunar New Year.
I often recall a coach’s saying: “Train slowly to run fast.” Marathon performance requires patience and gradual improvement, like bamboo growing steadily before flourishing.
* Is complacency a concern for such a decorated athlete?
It is always a concern for coaches. However, I see in Lệ a strong desire to conquer new challenges. She prepares meticulously for every competition, and at times I even learn from her.
We are also planning for the upcoming National Sports Games later this year. While I cannot yet reveal additional events she may enter, I hope she will once again stand on the podium and further affirm Gia Lai’s position in national sports.
Phạm Thị Hồng Lệ (born 1998, from Hòa Hội commune) has won 1 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze medals at four SEA Games (29, 30, 31, 32); and 2 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze medals at four National Sports Games (2014, 2018, 2022, 2026).
Hồng Lệ has also claimed multiple national championship titles and victories at both domestic and international running events in her specialty distances: 5,000m, 10,000m, half marathon, and marathon.
