Vân Trang: Running with legs, not by mouth! Mother of 4 wins Y Tý 42km trail and 2nd overall

Video of Vân Trang crossing the finish line at Y Tý (Clip and photos in the article provided by the athlete) The Y Tý Golden Race 2026 held on September 6 witnessed one of the most memorable moments in trail running. Overcoming steep slopes and challenging paths, Vân Trang (nickname Jang Doll) secured the top spot in the women's 42km category. More remarkably, the mother of four, born in 2026, claimed 2nd overall, beating almost all male runners except one, finishing in 4 hours and 26 minutes. At Lảo Thẩn peak, 2,860 meters above sea level, she not only became the female champion but also a symbol of resilience. The 42km trail course in Y Tý (Lào Cai) accumulates over 1,300 meters of elevation. The steep terrain, sharp turns, and thin high-altitude air are a nightmare for any runner. Vân Trang told the reporter: "The 42km has sections where the body feels drained. At those moments, I focused on the next segment, controlled my breathing, managed energy, and fueled at right times. I always reminded myself: 'Stay calm, as long as there's strength, there's hope'. This endurance comes from consistency and discipline. Besides running, I combine gym, swimming, and strength training daily". But alongside the proud achievement at the mountain peak, she faced a wave of discussion sparked by her response to negative comments on her appearance from netizens. Right after stepping off the podium, her image was spread in running groups for disrespectful gossip. Instead of celebrating the professional feat, discussions focused on her natural figure in tight sports attire, even using phrases like "carrying two grapefruits while running" to mock her. Not staying silent, the female runner responded directly and harshly: "Let me be clear, who carries two grapefruits running 42km or 55km mountain trails? I run with my legs, not relying on looks to be dragged into groups gossiping about me. People see pressure, but I see it as motivation, like getting vitamin C for the spirit. What matters is that I finished, I am healthy. As for judgments, judge away, I run with my own legs, not by people's chatter!". A runner from Hà Nội directly expressed hope for a more civilized view of female athletes: "What women in sports deserve first is effort and achievement. Appearance is a personal matter, while achievement is the result of years of training. When I see a girl running, I hope people see someone pushing their limits". She declared: "Running with legs, not by mouth!" Facing questions about whether she should dress more modestly to avoid stares, the champion said firmly: "Sports attire must be comfortable and safe first. If I change myself just to avoid gossip, I would always live under others' eyes. I choose to focus on my running and goals. Marathon taught me that life isn't always perfect. Life is the same. Compliments make me happy, criticism helps me reflect, while unkind words I learn to ignore". The glory at Lảo Thẩn has ended, and the next goal for this mother of four is to conquer the tougher Ultra Trail distance at the upcoming VMM 70km race and the 100km event at year's end. "Let achievements speak. I don't need to become the version others want to see. Just becoming a better version of myself each day is enough", Vân Trang expressed her determination for the next journey. To understand Vân Trang's journey better, we revisit her long path. Born in 2026, Vân Trang is a busy mother of four. Family duties dominate her time, but her passion for trail running provides balance. She started with local races near Hà Nội, gradually expanding to major events. Each morning, before taking her children to school, she rises early for gym and swimming. "A mother of four running a marathon seems impossible to many", she once shared. But her persistence helped her overcome injuries, fatigue, and external gossip. The Y Tý path is a test of both body and spirit. With 1,300 meters elevation, high temperatures, and strong winds, runners must endure. Vân Trang said during the steepest sections, she thought of her family. "Each step is a promise to my children, fueling my never-give-up spirit". Her 4 hours 26 minutes isn't just a number but proof of endurance built over years. Compared to male runners, she lost only one, showing female athletes can compete equally with proper preparation. This journey carries deeper meaning. As a female runner, she represents millions of Vietnamese women balancing family and passion. Born in 2026, now a mother of four, but running passion keeps her healthy and happy. Many might think a mother with four kids can't run marathons, but Vân Trang proves otherwise. Every run carries family weight but brings joy to her children. The online criticism about her appearance is a classic example of gender inequality in sports. Many female athletes face scrutiny on looks, especially in tight attire. But Vân Trang fought back. She said clearly: "I run with my legs, not by mouth". Her words spread widely, gaining support from the running community. Other female runners began sharing similar stories, demanding respect for achievements. From a professional view, Vân Trang's journey proves superior endurance. The 42km with 1,300m elevation isn't for everyone. Her 4 hours 26 minutes shows she exceeded her limits. In other races, Y Tý was a major challenge. Many male runners fell at steep points, but Vân Trang stayed strong. Tactical analysis shows she paced perfectly: steady breathing, fueling at rest points, avoiding early burnout. Vân Trang's story also inspires. Trail running is growing in Vietnam, and Y Tý 2026 is proof of maturity. With over 1,300m elevation, it's not easy. Many male runners collapsed, but Vân Trang remained steady. She distributed energy well, focusing on each segment. Her future goals include VMM 70km and 100km Ultra races. These tough events demand stamina and mountain skills. She's prepared with gym, swimming, and running. Every day, she improves herself. "I don't need to become the version others want to see", she said. This shows self-confidence and independence. Many similar stories exist in Vietnamese track and field. Many female runners face appearance criticism, but they keep their passion. Vân Trang is a prime example. She turned pressure into strength. Other female runners should learn from her. Community support will boost their confidence. Y Tý Mùa Vàng 2026 is more than a race; it's an event spreading gender equality message. Vân Trang used achievement and words to speak out. She hopes people see the effort of female athletes. Appearance doesn't matter; achievement does. Vân Trang's journey is long. With four young children, she keeps the fire alive. Every run, she thinks of her daughters' future. If they follow in sports, they deserve fair treatment. Vân Trang wants to inspire the next generation. In conclusion, Vân Trang is living proof of willpower. Despite criticism, she runs with her legs. This mother of four's perseverance will inspire many. The 2026 Y Tý race is a turning point, opening bright future for Vietnamese female sports.