The anticipation for the 2025 Hakone Ekiden is rising as the teams have been announced for the prestigious relay race set to take place on January 2 and 3, 2025. Known formally as the 101st Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip University Ekiden Race, this event draws the best collegiate runners from across Japan.
This year, the format of the race will again feature 20 teams, including ten seeded schools based on their performance from the previous year's race and an additional ten teams qualifying through the recent qualifying rounds. The seeded teams comprise the top ten finishers from the 100th Hakone Ekiden held in January 2024, which witnessed record-breaking performances.
The reigning champions, Aoyama Gakuin University, who set a new course record during the last race, will be among the teams to watch. They are closely followed by Komazawa University, the 2023 champions, and Kinki University, who are aiming to achieve a triumvirate of wins after their victories at the Izumo Ekiden and All Japan University Ekiden earlier this season.
Here is the complete list of teams competing in the 2025 Hakone Ekiden:
- Aoyama Gakuin University
- Komazawa University
- Josai University
- Toyo University
- Kinki University
- Hosei University
- Waseda University
- Soka University
- Teikyo University
- Daito Bunka University
- Rikkyo University
- Senshu University
- Yamanashi Gakuin University
- Nippon Sport Science University
- Chuo Gakuin University
- Chuo University
- Nihon University
- Tokyo International University
- Kanagawa University
- Juntendo University
Among the open participating teams, the Kanto Student Union team, previously known as Kanto Student Selection, will also feature competitors, adding excitement to the race.
The Hakone Ekiden is not just about competition; it embodies the spirit of university camaraderie and dedication. With history dating back to its inception, the race remains one of the most significant sporting events for Japanese universities. The upcoming edition promises remarkable athletic performances and new storytelling opportunities through the athletes' journeys.
Fans of the Hakone Ekiden can look forward to thrilling races, team rivalries, and the pursuit of glory on the famed courses from Tokyo to Hakone and back. The stakes are high as runners prepare to showcase their talents on one of the biggest stages for collegiate athletes.
