Following their triumphant dominance at the Hakone Ekiden, where they achieved their eighth overall victory consecutively, Aoyama Gakuin University (AGU) is gearing up for what is poised to be another fierce challenge. The team is set to go head-to-head with corporate teams at the inaugural Expo Ekiden, scheduled for March 16, 2025, in Osaka. This event will mark the first time elite teams from both universities and corporations will compete for the title of the best team in Japan.
Head coach Shu Harada of AGU, brimming with ambition after the recent Hakone Ekiden success, stated confidently, "We aim for the championship!" His passion is palpable, especially as he expressed frustration over corporate teams utilizing foreign runners, stating, "It’s absurd how far they’ll go for victory. Do they really need to resort to such measures?" Harada encourages corporate teams to experience the strength of today’s university runners firsthand, anticipating intense rivalry. "I expect a true showdown between Japanese teams, and we’re ready to take on the challenge as champions!" he declared.
The Hakone Ekiden is renowned for its prestigious history, and AGU recently set yet another record, showcasing the effectiveness of Harada’s unique training methodology, dubbed the Harada Method. This approach has benefited numerous top athletes who, after graduating, continue their mentorship under the same coach, fostering long-term relationships. Harada critiqued corporate coaching methods, saying, "Many corporate supervisors lack personal philosophies for developing talents!" He aims to validate the strength of AGU athletes he has cultivated over the years.
With promising marathon talent like Akira Kuroda, currently in his third year, AGU will field a flexible team. The strategizing for the Expo Ekiden promises to be rigorous, particularly as it moves away from the mountainous routes of Hakone to flat terrains, reaffirming Harada's unwavering resolve. "We refuse to entertain the idea of defeat!" he added.
The Expo Ekiden is set to be groundbreaking, featuring the top twenty teams across university and corporate spectrums. The summer event will take place at the Expo Memorial Park, originally the site of the 1970 Osaka World Expo, leading to Dream Island, encapsulating approximately 55 kilometers across seven sections. Notably participating universities include Kokugakuin University, Komazawa University, Aoyama Gakuin University, Soka University, Waseda University, Josai University, Rikkyo University, and Teikyo University, along with selected representatives from the Kansai region.
On the corporate side, team participants are yet to be revealed, but higher rankings from the recent New Year Ekiden are anticipated to lend the competition thrilling dynamics. Individuals are not just spectators; this event encourages local engagement and enthusiasm, reflecting Japan’s deep-rooted love for ekiden racing.
With Harada's leadership, AGU has established itself not only as an athletic powerhouse but also as an institution supporting youth development and community involvement through sports. The upcoming Expo Ekiden is expected to attract crowds, creating opportunities for athletes and fans alike to celebrate Japanese running culture.
The expectations from both universities and corporate teams are high, signaling fierce competition and showcasing the depth of talent present in Japan's running communities. The anticipation of victories and records at the Expo Ekiden guarantees excitement, setting the stage for AGU to prove their training prowess against corporate rivals. Harada’s strategic acumen and dedication to nurturing young runners will undoubtedly be put to the test.