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. Pooja Shah who aims to run marathons in 50 countries by the time she turns 50 years old. 

 

Traveling and running, fusing two passions together

――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. The story resonated with me, especially how he viewed the race day as the “culmination of my year-long full efforts.”

He explains how a marathon is not about trying on a race day and how we can build a community and enjoy the process together. Before, during and after, share the joy 🙂 Balancing life together!

I believe that the best part about running a marathon is that you are not looking for immediate results; you are training for a long-term goal, and how you show up for yourself every day builds character. This thinking is not just applicable to a marathon but to our lives in general. 

 

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

 The Japanese culture! I’ve always wanted to visit Japan ever since I learned about the concept of Omotenashi (or Japanese hospitality). I have just been waiting to get through the Tokyo Marathon so I can combine two of my passions—travel and running.

I have a dream, I call it Project 50! The idea is to run marathons in 50 countries by the time I turn 50. I’ve completed in 8 countries, 42 to go.Here’s a snippet of the journey -The Tokyo Marathon is widely known for its heartfelt support by volunteers and spectators. I look forward to experiencing the hospitality and love!

Also, I have read a book on a marathon by writer Haruki Murakami, and it would be lovely to experience his words come to life!

 

It will be fun to share smiles and laughter with like-minded runners.

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

 For someone who travels solo and doesn’t have anyone waiting at the finish line, I always draw a lot of energy from the support on the course. I learned that the crowd cheers in Tokyo is exceptional.

I have also heard and seen some videos online featuring the signs that people prepare that are funny. I think it will be fun to read them on the go and share smiles and laughter with like-minded people.

 

――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 love marathons, but what bothers me about big races and events is the amount of waste generated in these races—whether it is plastic cups/bottles/gel covers or the clothes that are thrown away.

The increased travel and flights to that city also leave an ecological footprint. What I would absolutely love is to see ways, events, and opportunities to reduce the pollution caused by us runners.

Can we find eco-friendly ways to hydrate and refuel? Can we do some plantations or other activities that could leave the place better and not worse?

 

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

 

 Being an Asian, I always wanted to run the only Abbott World Marathon Majorson my continent!

I would like to shar a poem I wrote that describes how I feel about running and preparing for a race and how it has impacted my life.