"I've run the Tokyo Marathon five times, including as a pace setter (5.5 hours) in 2010," says Ganbare Yusuke (Yusuke Inose), a comedian belonging to Yoshimoto Creative Agency. "I've run it five times, including as a guide runner," says Miho Ikeda, a coach at the ASICS Running Club.
Ganbare Yusuke (hereinafter referred to as Yusuke) declared, "This year I'm aiming for my personal best!" A top amateur runner talks about the appeal of the Tokyo Marathon.
Part 1 [Series] Marathon Challenge #7 A must-read for all runners! I'll teach you how to have a healthy relationship with running from a coach's perspective.
Here's a summary of the interviews and information on the ASICS promotion running until February 20th (Tuesday).

The appeal of the Tokyo Marathon, something only those who have run it can understand.

Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York, and Tokyo. "It has become one of the world's top six major marathon races (Abbott World Marathon Majors = AWMM), and is attracting attention as a race where the world's top runners can set records," says Yusuke.
Ikeda says, "The course was changed last year, making it an even easier race to run. Being easy to run means that even beginners can enjoy the course. There's continuous support from spectators along the route, so you can use that support as motivation to run."

—First, could you tell us about the characteristics and appeal of the Tokyo Marathon?

Ikeda: The course was changed last year, and it's now a really great course where you can start off with a downhill run and go around famous Tokyo landmarks, so you never get bored. The support never stops, and especially when I'm running through Ginza, I get the feeling that "everyone is cheering for me" (laughs).

The Yusuke Tokyo Marathon is the only race where everyone from elite world-class runners who can run in under 2 hours and 3 minutes to fast amateur runners and those who simply enjoy a leisurely pace can participate together. You can even watch the leading group running at incredible speeds at the turnaround point, and even slower runners will have the memorable experience of having run on a course where amazing times have been achieved.

Ikeda: This race really showcases all types of runners, but when you pass the top runners, you're amazed at how fast they are! Did you run last year, Yusuke?

Yusuke entered the race last year, but fell ill the day before and couldn't participate, so he didn't run the new course (tears). He set a personal best in the 2015 race, and in 2016 he aimed for an even better record, but he slowed down in the second half. Last year was tough for him as a runner because he couldn't even stand at the starting line, so this year he's been doing proper long-distance training and is gradually getting himself into a position to aim for a personal best.


—Have you noticed any changes in the number of participants in the Tokyo Marathon?

Ikeda : Everyone still seems to enjoy running, but I've noticed an improvement in running knowledge and etiquette, which shows that the sport is expanding.

Yusuke, there used to be a lot of participants who weren't wearing running shoes, right?

Ikeda: Especially among women, there's been an increase in people starting to run because they want to wear stylish running wear!

Yusuke: From my impression, many of the fast runners are familiar faces, but it seems like there are more people running at a slower pace. It's heartwarming to see families cheering on the participants. Are you running again this year, Ikeda-san?

Ikeda: This year, my main focus will be on seminars and talk shows at the expo, so I'll be working behind the scenes!

Page 2: Essential tips for staying warm during winter marathons that every runner should know.

*ASICS is an official partner of the Tokyo Marathon 2018.