The upcoming 101st Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip University Ekiden, set for January 2 and 3, 2025, has unveiled significant changes to its route and participants, introducing new strategies among the competing universities. The event consists of ten sections spanning approximately 217.1 kilometers, with teams allowed to substitute runners on race day, providing an exciting layer of unpredictability.
One of the major highlights is Aoyama Gakuin University (青山学院大学), last year’s winner, sending captain Yuto Tanaka (田中悠登) to run the critically timed 9th section. The team also included younger talent with first-year student Haruki Ogawara (小河原陽琉) set to anchor the race. Facing them is the formidable Komazawa University (駒澤大学), who, under the guidance of head coach Atsushi Fujita (藤田敦史), will deploy their star runner, Keita Sato (佐藤圭汰), known as “the monster,” for the 7th section to help regain lost ground. The stakes are high, with Aoyama Gakuin leading Komazawa by 3 minutes and 16 seconds.
During the first half of the relay, Aoyama Gakuin set the pace, finishing the outbound leg with impressive times. A noteworthy moment occurred when captain Tanaka stepped up to the plate, determined to secure the team's eighth consecutive triumph. Meanwhile, Komazawa, after securing fourth place, has fresh hopes for turnaround following determined finishes from their younger talents. Fujita expressed confidence about their ability to hold their own against the leaders: “We believe strongly. We want to trust ourselves and push out to the front,” he stated.
It was revealed by the organizing committee on the afternoon of January 1, 2025, which created ripples through the teams as key decisions and alterations were shared. Notably, the competition allows for up to six substitutions across the ten sections, with as many as four changes permitted on race day alone. Observers noted the impact of these changes on team dynamics, as they strive for both victory and maintaining their respective shidō positions—bearing significance as the top universities aim to secure their standings for the next event.
Among the notable teams, Meiji University (明治大学) and Waseda University (早稲田大学) are also prepared with strategic plots to climb the rankings. Meiji’s decision to switch out sections has raised eyebrows, with the aim of optimizing their relay mixture to potentially overpower competitors.
The race commences at 8 AM on January 3 from Hakone, challenging the teams with its unique geographical demands. Essential to winning are not just the runners’ speeds but their cohesive teamwork and moments of tactical insight as they interact during the sections.
For Aoyama Gakuin to maintain their leadership, the transition from leg to leg must be seamless, particularly with Takumi Nomura (野村昭夢) running the 6th section as they depend heavily on capturing momentum to hold their lead. Coach Haru Shin (原晋) emphasized the importance of mental fortitude: “We aim to finish strong, hopefully feeling as if it’s been run smoothly. That is the ultimate goal.” His thorough approach facing adversities from past races provides valuable lessons manifesting during the event's rigors.
This year's Ekiden also shines light on burgeoning younger athletes, with several first-year students making their debuts, eager to make their mark within their teams and the history of this decorated event. Their performances could draw attention to future team strategies and relay approaches, re-engaging fans beyond traditional views.
With the spotlight on the technical demands of each runner’s individual sections, spectators are also drawn to how well experienced runners adapt under pressure. After all, the Hakone Ekiden is as much about strategy as it is about endurance and speed.
Post-event discussions will undoubtedly reflect on how these strategic changes from the teams, including both minor and significant line-up modifications, will impact overall standings and records. Keita Sato’s participation is particularly anticipated due to his previous accolades, adding to the suspense of his awaited return to the competitive scene after battling through injuries.
For fans and participants alike, this year's Hakone Ekiden is shaping up with thrills, showcasing not just the athletes but weaving broader narratives about resilience and growth within the sport. Each section of the race, filled with emotion and eager competition, definitely reminds us why this event has claimed its revered place within the hearts of athletics enthusiasts across Japan.