Interview Relay 42 Stories of the Tokyo Marathon
〜Connecting Hearts〜

 

Interview Relay: 42 Stories of the Tokyo Marathon ~ Connecting Hearts~

This time, we introduce a wonderful story from Ms. Zafranek who had a moving experience at the Tokyo Marathon 2025 where a connection was made between Poland and Tokyo.

 

Place to fulfil a dream that has been years in the making

――Out of the interview relay articles published now, which one resonated with you the most? At which kilometer mark was that runner featured?

 The interview that resonated with me the most was with Takaya Mitsuka at the 11km point.His story about how the Tokyo Marathon strengthens bonds and creates unforgettable memories was truly inspiring. 

Tokyo has hosted various international races in the past, and many female marathon runners from Poland have achieved great success here, including Wanda Panfil, champion of the Women’s Marathon at the 1991 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, as well as Izabela Trzaskalska and Karolina Nadolska. For all these reasons, the Tokyo Marathon is a race I’ve long admired.

 

――What is the biggest appeal of the Tokyo Marathon, the point that makes you want to run it?

The Tokyo Marathon is one of the most unique and prestigious races in the world, filled with countless attractions—truly a dream event that I hope to participate in one day.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t run this time with my husband, but I’d like to share the incredible charm of the Tokyo Marathon as told by my husband, who successfully completed the Tokyo Marathon 2025.

 A Cultural and Historical Experience – Running through iconic landmarks such as Tokyo Tower, Sensoji Temple, and the Imperial Palace, the Tokyo Marathon offers a unique opportunity to experience the fusion of Japan’s ancient traditions and modern urban life.

The Energy of Tokyo – Running the Tokyo Marathon means feeling the heartbeat and vibrant energy of the city, powered by the cheers of spectators lining the streets.

An Unforgettable Atmosphere – From its flawless organization to the warmth of volunteers and fans, the Tokyo Marathon is known for its exciting yet harmonious atmosphere. The energy of the spectators and the spirit of hospitality make it a truly memorable event for every runner.

A True Global Event – The Tokyo Marathon brings together athletes from all over the world, offering a fantastic opportunity to share the passion for running with people from diverse cultures.

Japan’s Nature and Iconic Landmarks – Running a marathon with the possibility of glimpsing Mount Fuji in the distance is an incredibly breathtaking experience. After the race, you can explore Japan’s stunning natural beauty, from famous cherry blossoms to serene temples.

On the Path to Abbott World Marathon Majors Glory – Completing the Tokyo Marathon brings me one step closer to achieving my long-time goal of earning the Six Star Finisher Medal.

For me, the Tokyo Marathon 2026 is about more than just running 42.195 km. If given the opportunity to run, it would be a chance to experience a city and culture I’ve long admired while fulfilling a dream I’ve been working toward for years—an experience that truly excites me.

 

A race where you feel like the entire family is part of the experience

 

――Please tell us about a Tokyo Marathon related episode or story that moved you.

 The experience of my husband participating in the 2025 Tokyo Marathon and me, along with our family, cheering for him from Poland became the most emotional Tokyo Marathon experience for me. My husband and I have traveled the world together for many years, participating in marathons. I was aiming for the Six Star Finisher medal, and running the Tokyo Marathon was supposed to be a milestone in our journey.

However, due to an ironic twist of fate, that dream did not come true. My husband was fortunate enough to get a spot in the Tokyo Marathon, but I was not selected. He stood at the starting line while I could only cheer from afar. It was emotionally challenging for me. How much I wished to stand at the start line with him, experience the amazing energy of the race, and cross the finish line together.

However, through updates from my husband and stories from other participants, I could feel the energy of the race. The atmosphere was extraordinary, with tens of thousands of spectators cheering for the runners, volunteers embodying Japan’s hospitality, and an incredible sense of unity among the participants. Although I couldn’t be there in person, I was truly moved.

What especially touched me was the story of a visually impaired runner who completed the marathon with the help of a guide runner. Their determination and teamwork symbolized the essence of the Tokyo Marathon: endurance, friendship, and running not just for yourself but for something greater.

The most emotional moment came when my husband called just before the finish line. As he approached the 42 km mark, he streamed the final moments of the Tokyo Marathon via video call. At that time, it was 6 AM in Poland, and I was sitting at the breakfast table with our two sons, sharing in his joy and excitement. Thanks to that call, despite being thousands of kilometers away, it felt as though we were all participating in the Tokyo Marathon together as a family.

The Tokyo Marathon is more than just a race. It’s an event of passion, determination, and unity. Through this experience, I became even more passionate about running the Tokyo Marathon in the future… and more determined to create my own story in the streets of Tokyo.

 

――The Tokyo Marathon will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2027. To become the world’s best race, what are your expectations for the Tokyo Marathon, or what improvements would you like to see?

 I believe the Tokyo Marathon is already one of the most prestigious and well-organized races in the world, and I am confident that the 2027 20th anniversary edition will be a truly special event. I have high expectations for this milestone race and have been thinking of ideas that could make it the ultimate marathon experience for runners from all around the world.

For example, special athlete bib designs, a unique finish area, or a special ceremony could be organized to celebrate the occasion. These thoughtful touches would elevate the experience and create lasting memories for all participants.

 

I absolutely want to complete this unfinished story!

――What does the Tokyo Marathon mean to you? #MyTokyoMarathon is…?

 For me, the Tokyo Marathon is not just a race. It is a dream, a challenge, and a celebration of endurance and perseverance. I believe the Tokyo Marathon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where runners from all over the world gather to create unforgettable memories in an incredible city. It is still an unfinished story for me, but I am determined that one day, I will complete it.