The 101st Hakone Ekiden relay race took place on January 2 and 3, 2025, marking another captivating chapter in this storied event. Aoyama Gakuin University emerged as the champions, securing their place atop the competition with remarkable prowess.
The Hakone Ekiden, fully known as the Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip College Ekiden Relay Race, has evolved over the years to become one of Japan's most anticipated athletic events, where 21 teams, including universities and the Kanto Student Union, compete over 10 segments, spanning a total of 217.1 kilometers. The race serves not just as a contest of speed and endurance but also as homage to the spirit of distance running and its place within the Japanese cultural fabric.
The roots of this prestigious race can be traced back to the aspirations of Kanaguri Shiso, who significantly influenced the establishment of the competition after participating as Japan's marathon representative at the fifth Olympic Games. His vision? To nurture runners capable of shining on the world stage—a sentiment echoed throughout the competition.
The initial race took place on February 14 and 15, 1920, involving four participating universities: Waseda University, Keio University, Meiji University, and Tokyo Higher Normal School (now Tsukuba University). It was famously named the "Four Major Schools Ekiden Relay Race," with the Tokyo Higher Normal School securing the first victory. This historical backdrop highlights how the Hakone Ekiden has evolved, drawing thousands of enthusiasts to its courses each year.
Throughout the years, the race route has seen numerous changes, even adjusting during tumultuous periods such as World War II, when the event was suspended. After the war, it resumed, maintaining its ties to traditional routes like the Yomiuri Shimbun front, which marked both start and finish lines.
This year, spectators gathered near the finish line to witness the electrifying atmosphere, cheering passionately for the athletes as they approached the climax of the race. “The enthusiasm at the finish line was overwhelming,” recounted one witness from Yomiuri Shimbun online. This response from fans and supporters reaffirms the Hakone Ekiden's place as not merely a race, but as part of the community spirit and national pride.
Historically, the race has also adapted to modern needs, adjusting segments and distances for optimal competition. Notably, the total distance was recalibrated from 217.9 kilometers to 217.1 kilometers during the 91st event, emphasizing the race's commitment to precision and excellence.
Aoyama Gakuin University's victorious performance this year has rekindled interest and discussions about the future of the Hakone Ekiden. Their latest triumph exemplifies not just athletic excellence but the potent combination of team effort, strategic pacing, and mental fortitude.
“We aim to cultivate runners capable of representing Japan on the global stage,” eloquently stated Kanaguri Shiso, embodying the spirit of the Hakone Ekiden and its mission. This ethos continues to inspire young athletes and fans alike, perpetuating the race's legacy year after year.
For those new to the tradition or seasoned attendees, the Hakone Ekiden serves as both competition and festival—a celebration of endurance, history, and community. The commitment to honor its past can only lead to greater inspiration and connection within athletics.
With its rich history and vibrant present, the Hakone Ekiden stands poised for future growth, as it honors its roots and encourages the next generation of athletes to aim for greatness on both domestic and international stages.