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 from Ms. Shiori Oyanagi who said “I felt a deep appreciation and developed a sense of gratitude.” by taking on a challenge to run 10.7km for the first time. 

 

Impressed with how the runners from all over the world get together in one place. 

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

A story of Mr. Osamu Sato at the 22km point. It’s because I found his expression of “a symbol of the joy of running and challenge” mirrored my own feelings about the Tokyo Marathon. 

 

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

The biggest appeal is the fact that about 38,000 runners who came from all over the world ran as a pack. Normally, runners run in various areas in the world and I found it truly impressive that at the Tokyo Marathon the runners who had been training themselves in various areas gathered to run together. In addition, the collective energy of “everyone is running!”  inspired me and boosted me to work extra hard!

 

There is no limit, and I want to take on many more challenges

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

I had been very worried until just before the start of the Tokyo Marathon which I participated as runner for the first time, if I would be able to run through 10.7km without any issue. However, when I looked around, I realized that there were so many people with different nationalities and disabilities and they were running while carrying their own thoughts on their shoulders which stirred me. I got a wake-up call that there is still something I could do more and at the same time, I realized there was no limit and would love to take on many more challenges and become tough. 

 

――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?

One thing that crossed my mind was a place for international exchange. Although I wanted to try speaking in English to people from abroad, I could not do so as I felt “I may disturb them if I speak to them now” or “what if they do not wish to talk?”. So if there is a booth where we could have an international exchange, I thought that the Tokyo Marathon would become a race to deepen the bond with the world more globally. 

 

Many encounters, experiences and support

 

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

Get to know a sense of gratitude!

It is fair to say that I ran through thanks to the cheers and support from people along the course. “You can do it.” “Nice run!” “Goal is just there!” “Just ○○meters more to go!” – these words were unforgettable which pushed me forward when I was going through the toughest moments.  Moreover, thanks to a great number of the volunteers, I felt secure and was able to run with comfort, thinking I could always seek their support if needed. Thank you so much for your support for the runners. I am truly thankful and wish to express my appreciation directly by giving a deep bow to everyone for their support and cheers. 

Further, thanks to the traffic regulation to hold the Tokyo Marathon, we were able to exhilaratingly run through the streets which are usually bustling with cars and people. I had a fantastic experience and am thankful to those who cooperated with the traffic regulations. 

At the same time, it made me realize once again how fortunate I am. During my daily commute to school, I had not thought about it much previously, but after arriving at the start area in Shinjuku by train without any difficulty and returning smoothly to home by taking a punctual train, I realized that I am very lucky. 

At EXPO before the race, I had many encounters and various experiences and received a lot of support. I am very grateful to those who welcomed me with enthusiasm. Most of all, I am truly thankful to the organizers of the Tokyo Marathon 2025, the Tokyo Marathon Foundation, officials and official partners. I gained an experience which I will never forget for sure. Through this race, I developed a sense of gratitude so much. Thank you!!