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 Tom Tran, who ran the Tokyo Marathon 2024 as a charity runner.

 

Moved by the warm cheers from spectators and volunteers

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

 The article about Mr. Masazumi Soejima, Wheelchair Race Director, at the 3km point. It was a truly moving story!

 

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

 The Tokyo Marathon has so many charms that symbolize Japanese culture, but if I had to pick one, it would be the warm, smiling support from the spectators and volunteers along the course.

 

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

 I was fortunate enough to run the Tokyo Marathon 2024 as a charity runner for CARE International Japan. Meeting the charity team at the Tokyo Marathon EXPO and the post-race events, I felt even deeper respect for their passionate dedication to their work.

 

Keeping Japanese tradition alive at the Tokyo Marathon

 

――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 think the 20th-anniversary race is an important milestone to look back on in the history of the Tokyo Marathon and to have hope and expectations for the future. I hope that the Tokyo Marathon will continue to be a race that allows runners to feel the rich traditions of Japan.

Also, as a foreign runner, participating in this global popular race is one of the biggest challenges. If the international participation slots were further expanded, I think the Tokyo Marathon’s global reputation would be further enhanced.

 

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

For me, the Tokyo Marathon is a special race where I can experience a lifetime’s sense of accomplishment.