The athletes include 568 Vietnamese and 240 others from 33 countries and territories such as Russia, Germany, the Netherlands, Japan and China.The event features distances of 42km, 21km and 10km for runners.  A 2km race will be held for local students.While running, athletes can enjoy the magnificent landscape of Ha Long Bay – one of the world natural heritages recognised by UNESCO – on the course.

The marathon, promoted by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races, includes total prize money of VND192 million (nearly US$8,500) with the biggest, VND25 million (US$1,100) apiece, for the best male and female runners in the 42km distance.