Inspired by the bold and innovative spirit of Bruce McLaren, Bold McLaren is a celebration of entrepreneurs, innovators, creators and visionaries who dare to push boundaries, empower others, and ignite inspiration for future generations. Sharing this very spirit is Vietnamese endurance athlete Thanh Vũ, whose relentless pursuit a career in one of the world’s toughest […]
Inspired by the bold and innovative spirit of Bruce McLaren, Bold McLaren is a celebration of entrepreneurs, innovators, creators and visionaries who dare to push boundaries, empower others, and ignite inspiration for future generations. Sharing this very spirit is Vietnamese endurance athlete Thanh Vũ, whose relentless pursuit a career in one of the world’s toughest sports fields echo the fearless legacy of Bruce McLaren.
As McLaren Automotive continues to redefine the industry with cutting-edge performance and motorsport-driven innovation—exemplified by the McLaren Artura Spider, a revolutionary all-new hybrid convertible supercar—Thanh Vũ emerges as a true embodiment of resilience, ambition, and the relentless drive to succeed. Renowned for her unwavering determination, Thanh Vũ perfectly captures the Bold McLaren spirit of pushing beyond limits, with achievements that are truly remarkable.
Running Shapes Mindset And Willpower
In 2016, Thanh Vũ became the first Asian woman to complete the Deserts Grand Slam, conquering the Sahara, Gobi, Atacama, and Antarctica. She made history again in 2022 as the first Vietnamese female athlete to win the Deca Ultratriathlon, covering 2,260 km across swimming, cycling, and running. In early 2024, Thanh continued pushing her limits at the Montane Lapland Arctic Ultra in northern Sweden, where she was the only Vietnamese participant to complete the 500 km race in extreme weather over nine days. She shared that it was an emotional experience, with moments of fear and confusion, and to overcome them, Thanh also learned her own lessons.
Thanh Vũ continues to break boundaries and expand her presence in endurance races across the globe. Her journey began in 9th grade, when she took part in her first running event—finishing second to last. Yet, that early experience proved transformative. “I liked the fact that running never allowed me to give up. I always wanted to push a little more, no matter how difficult it was. That willpower during which taught me great perseverance. And that shaped my character later,". Strong mindset and willpower are they key factors that allowed her to push through every journey.
Pursuit of Excellence
Reflecting on her personal journey and the mindset behind her achievements, she shared about the internal struggle of letting go—of status, recognition, and societal expectations —to fully pursue what truly matters to her. Having to achieve both educational and career success, she admitted that the decision on career switch did not come easily. “I feel like my life often clings to status, position, or fame, and when I let go of those things, I wonder—can I still achieve anything?”
The answer became clearer during her desert challenges. “When you're in the desert, it doesn’t matter who you are, what you do, or what title you hold. The only conversation is the one between you and yourself.” It was in these raw and isolated moments that Thanh uncovered the true strength of her resilience—recognizing her limit yet finding the determination to persevere and continue pushing toward greater challenges beyond her comfort zone.
Fueled by Purpose
When asked about her thoughts on finding purpose and motivation for each race, Thanh emphasized that positivity and willpower could strongly impact and influence people. Particularly during the race through the snowy mountains of Sweden, Thanh Vũ recalled moments of deep exhaustion. In those difficult times, she reminded herself of her purpose for taking on the challenge: “I thought about the Operation Smile Fund — that’s my main goal, to fund 30 smiles for the children. That specific and meaningful motivation kept me going.”
Not stopping there, Thanh Vũ is constantly push boundaries with the aim to become the first Vietnamese woman to complete the challenging Sweden Race.This is also a motivation that drives her during difficult moments on the journey – "It's not just about the distance I've completed in the race but also the meaning behind it – Thanh wants to become the first Vietnamese woman to complete this race route."
2025 marks a decade since Thanh Vũ chose the journey of facing arduous and challenging paths, but also filled with joy, lessons, and meeting inspiring people. She draws inspiration from many role models - "I travel and meet inspiring people. Part of the reason I enjoy such unique and interesting challenges is because the people who inspire me are very diverse, including those with disabilities or twice my age, but they still participate in the race. They even impact and transform many people around them in the community."
Thanh Vũ’s journey is a powerful reflection of the Bold McLaren spirit—driven by determination, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Much like McLaren, she has forged a strong, authentic path by staying true to herself, rising above challenges, and inspiring others to do the same. Her story is a true representation to what’s possible when boldness meets purpose.
McLaren Ho Chi Minh City
Deutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh City – 33 Le Duan Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Hotline: 085 89 700 88
Opening hours: 9:00 – 18:00 from Monday to Sunday
S&S Automotive Service Centre HCMC
20 Cong Hoa Street, Ward 12, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Hotline: 0858 480 088
Opening hours: 8:00 – 17:00 from Monday to Friday
