The Tottori Marathon, which runs through Tottori City, was held on March 16, 2025, and it turned out to be quite the spectacle, even under less-than-ideal weather conditions. More than 2800 runners participated, braving the rain and chilly temperatures, showcasing their unwavering spirit and determination.
This year marked the 14th edition of the Tottori Marathon, and even though the sky was overcast, the event attracted runners from across the country. "Running alongside the sand dunes and the ocean is something I look forward to," shared one participant from Chiba Prefecture, eager for the scenic views the marathon promises.
A local runner expressed optimism about the weather, noting, "The temperature is low, but since there’s no wind, I think it’s good weather." This attitude reflected the collective perseverance of the participants as they prepared for the race.
Participants were not just out to run; many brought playful creativity to the event, with some donning humorous costumes. One runner dressed as a Tyrannosaurus Rex remarked, "I thought it would be funny to dress up." Another participant, costumed as white blood cells, shared, "I’m dressed as white blood cells, which became popular due to the movie 'Cells at Work.' I handmade it, hoping to progress together with everyone on the marathon course akin to moving through blood vessels." This unique take added to the festive atmosphere along the route.
At 9:00 AM, the race began with the sound of the starting signal echoing through the air. An enthusiastic crowd gathered at Tottori Sand Dunes Oasis Plaza, where the runners embarked on their 42.195 kilometers course through the city streets, culminating at the Yamata Sports Park. With 2856 participants setting out, it was truly a sight to behold.
Along the marathon's route, dedicated cheerleaders and supporters lined the streets, providing energetic encouragement. Ten kilometers along, at the water station located in Kokufu-cho, Tottori City, volunteers brought much-needed relief to runners, distributing rice balls and other treats. The homemade pork soup proved particularly popular among the athletes.
"It’s warm, the best!" exclaimed one of the runners after enjoying the warm soup. Another runner, braving the cold weather, expressed gratitude for the volunteers: "It’s super cold, but I want to do my best, thankful for the warm support."
The spirit of support extended beyond just the refreshments, as volunteers took on various roles to motivate participants. One volunteer commented, "Especially today, since it's raining, it’s very popular and we are packed here. I hope everyone can get energized and run another step from here."
Adding to the colorful atmosphere was enthusiasm from supporters like those from 'Shiro Usagi B&G,' who assist visually impaired runners. Shouting, "Go, White Rabbit!" they rallied behind the blind runners to encourage their progress.
The Tottori Marathon is more than just a race; it symbolizes community bonding, resilience, and the joy of shared endeavors. Despite the challenging weather, the event was marked by laughter, camaraderie, and collective strength—qualities aspiring to uplift the entire region.
This year’s marathon was not just about crossing the finish line; it was about the spirit of perseverance and the unwavering support from volunteers and spectators alike. The Tottori Marathon stands as a shining example of what community strength looks like, encouraging everyone to keep moving forward—one step at a time.
