Born in the mountainous region of northern Vietnam, Ha Thi Hau grew up running freely through the hills and forests - an experience that would later lay the foundation for her trail running journey. During high school, she began to show her natural talent for running. However, due to being just 2cm below the height requirement, she missed the chance to enter university and pursue her dream major in physical education.

Life after Covid pandemic was far from easy, Ha Thi Hau sought a way to reclaim her life and rediscover herself. It was during this time of confusion and struggle that she turned back to running. After only two months of training, she stood at the starting line of the Vietnam Mountain Marathon (VMM) and astonishingly, she claimed the championship in her debut. From that moment, a new chapter of her life began.

Ha Thi Hau did not stop at domestic races in Vietnam - she set her sights on the global stage. She placed 6th at the Western States 100 and 4th at the UTMB CCC, two of the world’s most prestigious trail running events. Each time her signature conical hat appeared at the finish line, it signified another step beyond her own limits.

Ha Thi Hau shared that Vietnamese women runners are not short of passion for trail running, but are often constrained by the dual pressures of work and family, leaving little time to chase their dreams. In many of them, she saw a reflection of her younger self. That’s why every one of her finishes carries the love and determination of Vietnamese trail runners - inspiring more women to step forward with courage and confidence.

As a representative of Vietnamese trail running, she exemplifies resilience and what "light" truly stands for, inspiring others by reigniting her passion through life’s challenges and chasing limits on the trail.

Highlights

• 2022 1^st VMM 100K
• 2023 4^th UTMB CCC
• 2024 4^th UTMB CCC
• 2025 1^st TSAIGU TRAIL
• 2025 6^th Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run
• 2025 1^st Chiangmai by UTMB 100K