12-year-old Minh Thu shines at Ho Chi Minh City Sports Games, winning 800m gold

At just 12 years old, Minh Thu has emerged as a standout talent at the Ho Chi Minh City Sports Games 2026, capturing the gold medal in the women's 800m race. Her victory is a testament to her dedication and burgeoning athletic prowess, even amidst competitors with greater experience and physical maturity.

Minh Thu's performance extended beyond the 800m. She also earned a silver medal in the 1,500m race, finishing behind Lê Thị Hà, an athlete over two decades her senior. Additionally, she contributed to her team's bronze medal in the 4x400m mixed relay, showcasing her versatility across different track events.

Her running style is marked by powerful strides and a determined spirit. In the 800m final, Minh Thu strategically paced herself before unleashing a decisive sprint in the final 150 meters to secure her gold medal. This tactical approach, combined with her stamina and speed, impressed spectators and coaches alike.

Minh Thu's journey into athletics began just over two years ago, initially as a way to improve her physical fitness. She trains rigorously, balancing her academic responsibilities with demanding practice sessions. Despite her youth, she exhibits a mature approach to competition and a strong work ethic, having previously won two gold medals at the Ho Chi Minh City Student Sports Festival. Her success at the city games signals a promising future in the sport.

“

Although I was quite tired, I am very happy and proud of my performance. Throughout the race, I always tried to maintain a stable pace and focus on every step to achieve the best results.