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  Mr. Osamu Sato, who served as an official pacer in the Tokyo Marathon 2024.

An overwhelming sense of scale and ease of running

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

 It’s the article by Mr. Takaya Mitsuka at the 11km point. I resonate with his sentiment of “Enjoying the marathon!”

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

 The greatest appeal of the Tokyo Marathon is the overwhelming sense of scale as you run through the global metropolis of Tokyo, and the ease of running that comes with a top-class race. The course, which starts at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and goes through famous places such as Asakusa, Ginza, and in front of the Tokyo Station, is never boring, and the roadside support never stops. The wide roads and the course with few elevation changes are ideal for aiming for records. The excitement of running on the same stage as the world’s top runners, and the sense of unity of running together with about 38,000 runners, I think, are the unique attractions.

Unforgettable memories as an official Pace-setter

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

 My experience serving as an official Pace-setter at the Tokyo Marathon 2024 is still a very special memory for me. While maintaining the set pace and encouraging the runners around me, I was deeply moved by the sight of runners desperately hanging on even after the 30 km mark. Right before the finish line, when I crossed it with runners who were giving their last bit of strength, I received words of gratitude and tears, and I truly felt the weight of the Pace-setter’s role. It was an unforgettable race where I learned the joy that comes from supporting others and reaffirmed the appeal of running.

――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 feel that strengthening ‘omotenashi’ ( hospitality) is key for the Tokyo Marathon to become the world’s best race. Like Boston or London, I would like to see an even greater atmosphere where the entire city celebrates the marathon and more comprehensive support that makes it easier for overseas runners to participate. By introducing data analysis and runner support systems that utilize Japan’s technological capabilities, I hope they aim to be the world’s best race not just in terms of records but also as an ‘experience.’

A stage that reminds me of the essence of running

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

 To me, the Tokyo Marathon is a ‘symbol of the joy of running and challenge.’ It’s a special　day where tens of thousands of us get to chase our goals in the vibrant, world-famous city of Tokyo! It’s a unique race where top athletes and citizen runners come together, and you can experience a sense of unity with the support of the roadside cheers. By running, I rediscover the charm of Tokyo, and by supporting, I realize the depth of running. For me, the Tokyo Marathon is an irreplaceable stage that reminds me of the essence of running.