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 Ms. Lori Innamorata, who will aim to complete Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) Six Star Finisher at the Tokyo Marathon 2025.

 

Final race to complete Abbott WMM Six Star Finisher

――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. Ryo Hayashi, Director of the Tokyo Marathon Foundation’s Business Development Division at the 4km point.  I love that he was NOT a runner before becoming involved in the organization. It allowed him to see the sport from a different point of view.  I love that ONE TOKYO has grown into a club with over 650,000 members, including ONE TOKYO GLOBAL.  It’s an amazing story to see the appeal of running really is worldwide. 

 

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

 The most attractive aspect of the Tokyo Marathon that makes me want to participate is the unique blend of world-class race organization, an electric atmosphere, and the opportunity to run through Tokyo, one of the most dynamic cities in the world. As one of the AbbottWMM races, the Tokyo Marathon offers an unparalleled experience, combining elite competition with a deep sense of community among thousands of runners from across the globe.  

In addition, the Tokyo Marathon would COMPLETE my 6th Star journey and would be a tremendous personal accomplishment as someone who started running very late in life (at the age of 47) and could never have dreamed of actually participating and completing ONE marathon, let alone ALL of the AbbottWMM  And I would be returning to a county that was fortunate enough to experience in July 2023, checking off another bucket-list in my quest to travel to amazing parts of this great world!

 

Inspiring story of Mr. Yuki Kawauchi

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

 The inspiring story I have read several times from the Tokyo Marathon is that of Mr. Yuki Kawauchi, a runner with a full-time job who defied odds by winning the Boston Marathon in 2018. Before that win, he had made a name for himself at the Tokyo Marathon, where he competed against elite, professional runners while balancing his daily work life.

His relentless determination, passion for running, and refusal to let obstacles define his limits embody the true spirit of marathon running. 

Seeing someone like him rise to greatness through sheer perseverance is a reminder that anything is possible with dedication and heart. I feel like I relate so well to him, not because of my speed for sure (!) but I also have the same determination for personal goals I set for myself. 

 

――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?

 The course itself is a major draw  weaving through Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Asakusa’s historic streets, and the bustling Ginza district.  (Places I have already experienced so I am even more excited!)  The crowd support, from what I have heard in research,  is phenomenal—spectators line the streets, cheering runners on with unwavering enthusiasm, making every step feel energizing. 

Beyond the race, Tokyo’s culture, food, and hospitality add to the allure. From enjoying a bowl of ramen after crossing the finish line to soaking in the vibrant cityscape, the entire experience is going to be unforgettable. While I am aiming for a personal best, I also want to simply embracing the journey, because the Tokyo Marathon offers an extraordinary race that’s both physically challenging and emotionally rewarding. I would be in awe and it would be a blessing for me to be able to take part in such an iconic event. Just writing about it is giving me a feeling of euphoria.

 

Special challenge to feel deep connections with Japan

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

 Beyond the prestige of the race, my personal connection to Japan makes this marathon even more special. Having previously visited this incredible country and summited Mt. Fuji, I developed a deep admiration for the country’s natural beauty, culture, and spirit of perseverance. That experience left a lasting impression on me, and returning to Japan to run the Tokyo Marathon would be another incredible way to challenge myself while celebrating my love for this amazing country.  Looking down over this beautiful country from the top of Mt Fuji is something that I will never forget for the rest of my life. I can only imagine that same feeling of accomplishment, beauty and deep love will be felt crossing the finish line of the Tokyo Marathon.  Running along the Sumida River is just a small taste of what I can imagine running the incredible Tokyo Marathon will be like!