Local legend has it that a mother dragon and her children were sent from the heavens to help the ancient Vietnamese in an epic battle against invaders. 'Halong' means "descending dragon" in Sino-Vietnamese – that's how Halong Bay got its name.

If you look closely enough, you can see how the ragged edges of the famed limestone resemble rough dragon scales. With a bit of imagination, you could even make out the outline of a dragon's body curved around the limestone karsts.

Perhaps the best way to picture this would be to see it up close for yourself. There's still time to register for the Halong Bay Half Marathon happening on Saturday, 28 November 2015. Or perhaps include this race in your calendar next year.

Behold the grandeur of natural scenery in Halong Bay, a UNESCO-recognised world heritage site recognised by UNESCO. Open your eyes to views of typical Vietnamese fishing villages, the longest single-span suspension bridge in SouthEast Asia, and offshore fishing boats returning to the local markets.

Held in Quang Ninh, Vietnam, the internationally-acclaimed Halong Bay Half Marathon will flag off at 7:00 a.m. from Bai Chay and finish at the Museum and Library of Halong, a first-rate architectural icon. Meanwhile, a 5 km Fun Run will start at 8:30 a.m., starting and ending at Tran Quoc Nghien street.

All half marathon finishers will receive a medal and certificate, with prizes to be awarded to the top three men and women runners.

Registration

Sign up for the Half Marathon for US$80, or 5 km Fun Run for US$10.

There are 4D3N and 5D4N travel packages inclusive of race fees available too.

For more information, visit the Halong Bay Half Marathon official website.