Anticipation builds as the 2025 Hakone Ekiden approaches, set to take place on January 2 and 3 between Tokyo and Hakone, marking the 101st edition of this iconic inter-university relay race. The Kanto Student Union team, which comprises runners selected from various universities whose teams did not qualify for the main event, has recently announced its roster, adapting to last-minute changes.
Notably, the Kanto Student Union team is made up of students from the top 16 universities based on their performance at the selection meet. This method ensures fresh talent, as all members must be those who have not previously participated in the main event. For the 2025 competition, the team will see their first participation since the 2024 race was celebrated with extra competitors for its centenary.
Head coach Toru Koyuki from Tokyo University of Agriculture oversees the team, which is captained by Daiko Furukawa, currently enrolled at the University of Tokyo's graduate school. The team boasts strong contributions from 16 athletes, including nine fourth-year students, four third-year students, and three first-year students. Notably absent from the lineup is any second-year runner, emphasizing the experience of the selected group.
On December 10, 2024, the Kanto Student Union team announced its initial lineup, and changes to specific legs of the race were made public as the competition date neared. On December 29, 2024, the team revealed which runners would be tasked with each of the segments of the race, known as 'kikan'. Although fierce competition is expected among the selected runners, the anticipation of the day-of adjustments adds another layer of excitement.
On January 2, the team confirmed multiple changes to their entries for the first leg of the race. Among these adjustments, Daiko Furukawa was designated to cover the ninth leg, replacing another runner due to unforeseen circumstances. Takuma Akiyoshi, also from the University of Tokyo, will proceed according to schedule with the eighth leg, upholding his planned participation. Fittingly, this segment has been branded as the “Akamon Relay,” which pays homage to the team's illustrious history.
The 6th leg will be covered by Sena Yokota of Kokushikan University, followed by Shun Kurihara from Meiji Gakuin University running the 7th leg, and Yuki Fukamoto representing Musashino Gakuin University completing the 10th leg. This sequence of runners has sparked enthusiasm among observers as each participant brings their unique strengths and experiences to the race.
The Kanto Student Union team’s entry this year is particularly notable as it is their first appearance after the increased pool of 23 teams at the previous year’s centennial event. The upcoming relay is expected to be another data point of interest, particularly because the results will be considered as reference records rather than official standings.
The significance of the Hakone Ekiden transcends the mere act of competition. It is woven deeply within Japanese culture, often viewed as more than just sports; it signifies teamwork, endurance, and the relentless spirit of participants across generations. The origins of this iconic event, which begins on New Year's Day, contribute to its appeal, as teams prepare rigorously during the holiday season, increasing excitement and engagement from fans and alumni alike.
Following their selection, the Kanto Student Union team members have engaged actively with their university communities—drumming up support, participating in regional training camps, and strengthening their skills through rigorous practices. With the event fast approaching, the eyes of the athletic world will soon be on Hakone, reminding us all of the lasting power of sport to unite and inspire.