Thousands of people were eager to partake in a dynamic running event held in a coastal city in central Vietnam on Sunday.

The ‘Danang Barefoot Run,’ organized by the People’s Committee of Da Nang City, attracted up to 5,000 tourists and locals, officials said.

According to newswire Dan Tri, 300 sailors from the ongoing Clipper Race, an international yacht racing competition, also took part in the event.

The competition, held at Bien Dong (East Sea) Park, consisted of three races: 2km, 5km and 10km along the beach in the city.

All participants were required to run with their feet exposed to the sandy beach.

The run also featured myriad traditional activities, including singing and dancing.

The running competition was organized not only to encourage people to have an active lifestyle, but also to deliver the message of protecting the ocean, as well as dignifying the beauty of the city’s beaches, according to the municipal Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.

The contest was first held on December 6 last year.

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