Going the distance: The 53rd Tien Phong (Vanguard) newspaper national cross-country run is set to attract almost 300 athletes. The tourney will kick off on March 25 in the city of Hue. — File Photo

HA NOI — As many as 270 athletes will compete in the Tien Phong (Vanguard) newspaper national cross-country run and semi-marathon in Hue City.

This year, as new additions to the competition, girls aged between 14 and 15 will take part in the 2km pool while boys of the same age participate over 3km. In the 16-17 age group, girls will compete over 3km while boys run 5km.

"Viet Nam athletics is strong over middle and long distances. We have included these new events to discover and foster young talents," said Tien Phong Editor-in-Chief Doan Cong Huynh.

The tournament will see participation from national team members such as Truong Thanh Hang and Pham Thi Binh, who will compete in the women's 5km and 21km events, respectively.

According to Nguyen Manh Hung, deputy general secretary of the Viet Nam Athletics Federation, their attendance would not affect their efforts seeking qualification for the London Olympics this summer.

A prize worth up to VND130 million (nearly US$6,300) will be awarded to the events' winners.

It is the 53rd time Tien Phong has organised the national tournament, which has contributed to sourcing such stars as two-time Southeast Asian (SEA) Games gold medallist Pham Dinh Khanh Doan and 22nd SEA Games gold medallist Doan Nu Truc Van.

The race will start at 6.30am on March 25 and be aired live on Viet Nam Television's Channel 2. — VNS