Vân Trang - Y Tý Mùa Vàng 2026 Champion: 'Run with your legs, not with other people's mouths'

On the early morning of September 6, 2026, in the remote commune of Y Tý in Bat Xat district, Lao Cai province, the atmosphere was electric as the Y Tý Mùa Vàng 2026 trail running race kicked off. The event has grown into one of Vietnam's most anticipated trail races, drawing hundreds of athletes competing in distances such as 10km, 21km, 42km and 55km. Yet it was not just the spectacular mountain scenery that caught everyone's attention, but the extraordinary performance of Vân Trang, also known as Jang Doll. Born in 2026 and a mother of four, Vân Trang is admired for her relentless commitment to running despite the demands of raising four young children. At the grueling 42km category with more than 1,300 meters of cumulative elevation gain, she delivered an astonishing performance, finishing as the first female athlete in 4 hours and 26 minutes, and second overall only behind one elite male runner. While her victory was a proud moment at the 2,860-meter-high Lảo Thẩn summit, her post-race experience took a different turn. Some online commenters focused on her body shape, comparing her chest to “two grapefruits” and mocking her running attire. Instead of staying silent, Vân Trang responded with fierce directness: “I dare anyone to run 42km or 55km on mountain trails carrying two grapefruits! I run on my own two feet, not on my looks. If people want to judge, they can judge. I still finished the race and I am happy and healthy. I run with my legs, not with other people's mouths!” She also stressed that women in sport should be recognized first and foremost for their effort and achievements. “When you see a girl on the race course, I hope people see someone striving to push her own limits,” she said. On her choice of clothing, Vân Trang firmly declared that sportswear must be comfortable and safe. Changing oneself out of fear of other people's judgment would mean always living by others' glances. Her story has triggered a broader conversation about body shaming and gender bias in community sports in Vietnam. Many argue that female athletes are often objectified rather than respected for their discipline and results. Vân Trang, however, turns hate into motivation. She says, “Let your achievements speak. You don't need to become the version someone else wants to see. Just become a better version of yourself every day.” Next, she aims to conquer the Vietnam Mountain Marathon (VMM) 70km ultra trail, and later this year, the 100km distance. With her performance at Y Tý Mùa Vàng 2026, no one doubts her ability to reach these goals. Her voice adds to the growing movement of women who embrace sports with confidence and resilience, inspiring a cultural shift towards respect and equality in Vietnamese athletics.