Hồng Lệ, serving as pacer for the sub-3-hour group, guided dozens of male runners, helping them maintain pace, morale, and hydration throughout the race.
In the final kilometers, competitors separated to pursue individual times, with Hồng Lệ crossing the finish line at 2 hours 56 minutes, 44 seconds ahead of runner-up Vũ Khánh Linh, marking a triumphant return after missing several races.
In the men’s 42 km category, Kenyan runner Kemboi secured first place with 2 hours 24 minutes 20 seconds, finishing two minutes ahead of compatriot Kure. Vietnam’s Trịnh Minh Tâm placed third at 2 hours 27 minutes, setting a personal best in his first year competing in full marathons.