Van Trang wins women's 42km at Y Ty 2026: “I run with my legs, not with people's mouths”

When Van Trang crossed the final finish line at Y Ty, the clock on her wrist stopped at 4 hours 26 minutes. The image of the woman born in 2026 with a steady running stride immediately became the highlight of the 2026 Y Ty Golden Season race. Not only did she take first place in the women's 42km category, but she also finished second overall, behind only one male runner. This achievement is even more remarkable because she is a mother of four and often goes by the nickname Jang Doll. The 42km route in Y Ty commune, Bat Xat district, Lao Cai province has a total elevation gain of more than 1,300m. Mount Lao Than, 2,860m above sea level, sits right on the course, making the steep sections a real test for all runners. Thin air at high altitude, combined with slippery dirt and rocky trails, forces every athlete to plan every step. For Van Trang, the most important thing was not speed but the ability to keep rhythm when the body began to fade. Speaking to a reporter after finishing, the Hanoi runner said: “The 42km distance has slopes that almost drain your energy. At that moment, I focused only on the section in front of me, kept my breathing steady, managed my strength and refueled at the right time. I kept telling myself: ‘Stay calm, as long as you still have strength, there is still a chance.’ This endurance comes from consistency and discipline. Besides running, I combine gym, swimming and supplementary exercises to build fitness day by day.” However, the joy of the performance was quickly overshadowed when Van Trang's photos were shared in running groups with disrespectful comments. Instead of mentioning the 4 hour 26 minute time, many focused on her naturally large bust in tight sportswear. Some even used the phrase “carrying two grapefruits while running” to mock her. Rather than staying silent, Van Trang responded firmly: “Honestly, I challenge anyone to carry two grapefruits and run 42km or 55km on mountain trails! I run with my legs, not with my appearance, so why take me into a group to gossip? Others see pressure, I see motivation — a vitamin C boost for my spirit. The important thing is I still finished, still happy and healthy. Judge all you want, I run with my own legs, not with others' mouths!” The mother of four also expressed hope that the community would view women in sports more civilly. She said appearance is personal, while results come from years of training. When seeing a girl on the racecourse, she hopes people see someone trying to overcome limits rather than searching for flaws to mock. “Sports clothing must first be comfortable and safe. If I change myself just because I fear judgment, I will always live under other people's eyes.” The Y Ty chapter is closed, and Van Trang has turned to a new goal: conquering the 70km distance at the upcoming VMM race and ultimately the 100km event at the end of the year. For her, every road has its own uphills. What matters is to keep running with her own legs and let achievements speak. “I don't need to become the version others want to see. It is enough to become a better version of myself every day.”