Mother of four Vân Trang wins Y Tý 42km and hits back at body shamers: “I run with my legs, not with people’s mouths”

On September 6, at the Y Ty Golden Season 2026 race, Van Trang – nicknamed Jang Doll – crossed the finish line of the 42km distance amid cheers from fellow athletes. The mother of four, born in 2026, not only won the women's category but also finished second overall, behind just one male runner. She completed the race in 4 hours 26 minutes, a result that challenges stereotypes about women in trail running. The Y Ty race is held in Lao Cai and features more than 1,300 meters of cumulative elevation gain on the 42km course. Runners face steep climbs, streams and thin air at high altitude. Mount Lao Than is 2,860 meters above sea level, making patience more important than raw speed. That is why Van Trang’s second-place overall finish stood out. Speaking after the award ceremony, Van Trang said her victory was not luck. She explained that she focused on each short section, controlled her breathing, managed energy and refueled at the right time. She also credited her consistent training routine, including gym, swimming and other supplementary exercises. However, as her finish photo spread online, some people mocked her natural body shape instead of celebrating her performance. Comments such as “carrying two grapefruits while running” appeared in running groups. Instead of staying silent, Van Trang responded: “I challenge anyone to carry two grapefruits while running 42km or even 55km in the mountains. I run with my legs, not with my appearance. I still finished, I am still healthy. If you want to judge, go ahead – I run with my own feet, not with people’s mouths.” Her response drew support from many female runners who had experienced similar judgment. Van Trang said women in sport should first be recognized for their effort and achievements, not their bodies. When asked if she would wear looser clothes to avoid stares, she refused, saying sports outfits must be comfortable and safe. Changing herself out of fear would mean living according to others’ eyes. “Marathon teaches me that I cannot always run in perfect conditions. Life is the same. Compliments make me happy, criticism helps me reflect, and malicious words I learn to let go,” she said. Van Trang is now preparing for the 70km category at VMM and eventually the 100km race at the end of the year. As a mother of four, she wants to prove that women can balance family and passion. “Let achievements speak. You do not need to become the version others want to see. Just try to become a better version of yourself every day,” she said.