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 of Venkateswaran Santhanam, who succeeded in losing 45kg through running and has always admired Japan and the Tokyo Marathon.

Japan is a country I’ve always wanted to visit

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

 I have most resonated with the article by Mr. Takaya Mitsuka at the 11km point.

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

 Japan is a country I’ve always wanted to visit. Growing up in Singapore, I’ve traveled to many places in Southeast Asia and gained a deep understanding of its culture, naturally sparking my interest in Japan.
I feel that a big part of the Tokyo Marathon’s charm is that Tokyo is a big city, yet history and culture are alive and well. While running through cultural landmarks like Tomioka Hachiman Shrine and Kaminarimon, runners are also captivated by modern architecture like Tokyo Skytree—I think the Tokyo Marathon offers this unique experience!
Personally, I feel very fortunate to be able to run on roads specially opened for runners in Tokyo, one of the world’s leading cities. I want to cherish every moment of the 42km and enjoy it with my whole body!

Signed up for the charity run without hesitation

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

 A friend of mine ran the Tokyo Marathon 2024 and told me about his/her experience. He/She seemed to have a very positive experience and said he/her was moved by the cleanliness of the course and the warm support from the volunteers and roadside spectators. He also felt comfortable with the supporters, who were very friendly but maintained a respectful level of enthusiasm.
He/She also told me about the diversity of the city of Tokyo. Originally from Singapore, he/her had already visited many countries, but he/she said, ‘I was surprised by the scale of Tokyo.’
Hearing his/her story made me want to visit Japan even more and increased my longing for the Tokyo Marathon. When the opportunity arose to participate in the Tokyo Marathon through the “Peace Winds” charity slot, which works to protect animals endangered by disasters, conflicts, and changes in social structures, I signed up without hesitation.

――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?

 When I heard that the Tokyo Marathon became one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2012, I was really happy. I believed it deserved the honor, so I was proud that it was recognized. I am deeply moved knowing that the 20th-anniversary race will be held in 2027.
Japan has a long tradition of running, and the Tokyo Marathon is the culmination of that. I think it’s wonderful for the running world that it’s not just about ‘running’ but also communicates the appeal of sports and is an inclusive race that anyone can participate in. I hope the 20th-anniversary race will attract even more people to apply and become an even more spectacular event. In particular, I hope to see an increase in senior and female runners in addition to the current participant base.
Also, with the increasing popularity of Tokyo as a tourist destination, I think there will be increasing interest from people who don’t usually run. What is needed for the Tokyo Marathon to become the “world’s best marathon”? Is it the number of participants? The support from the roadside? Or is it an improvement in satisfaction?
Personally, I’ve never heard anything negative about the Tokyo Marathon. However, marketing to overseas markets may be the key to further evolution. I think we can reach younger generations, especially Gen Z and Alpha, by using influencers to share race experiences and explore new sponsorship possibilities.
Currently, the running boom is spreading globally, and the Tokyo Marathon is reaching a wider audience. If this trend continues, I am confident it will be even more highly regarded as the “world’s best marathon” in 2027!

The culmination of my weight loss and running journey

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

 I started running 6 years ago to lose weight. At that time, I weighed about 120kg, but through continuous running, I succeeded in losing 45kg, and I’ve been running ever since.
While losing weight, I gained much more in return. Encounters with friends who share the same values, confidence, a new sense of self-affirmation, and the power to overcome difficulties—I was able to gain these important things through running. Running always reminds me of the importance of motivating myself and overcoming adversity.
Also, Japan is a country I’ve always admired. The culture, traditions, and the spirit of valuing community—these resonated deeply with my own values. Although from afar, I’ve always sympathized with the Japanese way.
For me, the Tokyo Marathon is a special occasion where my ‘love for running’ and ‘admiration for Japan’ intersect. I believe it’s a race that represents the culmination of my weight loss and running journey.
I’m currently studying Japanese, so I can interact with everyone in Japan! I’m truly looking forward to participating in the Tokyo Marathon, and I’m already filled with gratitude for the efforts of everyone in the management and all the volunteers!