[shout-out] Singapore’s Mizuno Ekiden 2015

Good news for all Marathon lovers and Team Relay Race lovers, as Mizuno is introducing their first fully -fledged Ekiden race in Singapore, and they are targeting at least 5,000 participants. This inaugural race will be held on the 18 July 2015 at The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay.

 

 

The Mizuno Ekiden 2015 focuses on Japanese values such as teamwork, performance and perseverance, and it will showcase the concept of relay running that has stemmed from Japan and has been incredibly popular since its inception. Ekiden is a term referring to a long-distance relay running race in the Japanese culture. Although the concept is not new in Singapore, it will be the first time a race in Singapore features only Ekiden-based categories, namely the Open Category (42.195km), Corporate and Schools Category (21.1km).

 

The first runner from all categories will start from The Meadow at Gardens by the Bay donning the traditional tasuki sash and race along a scenic route, passing landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands and the Marina Barrage. Once they have reached the end of their relay leg, they will change-over at the transition point by passing on the tasuki sash to the next team mate who will continue the race. This will be repeated right up to the last runner. While waiting for the last team member to race through the finish line, runners are able to enjoy Japanese cultural activities planned in the Matsuri Race Village and thereafter proceed to the Finish Line to be warmly welcomed their team mates. 

 

Racing in teams of four, the participants will be entitled to compete in their respective categories for a prize purse of $1,600 and $600 worth of Mizuno products, along with the honour and prestige that comes with winning the inaugural Mizuno Ekiden 2015 Race. Running in an Ekiden race allows participants to experience the importance of a team working in sync with one another, whereby encouraging each other to carry on when the going gets tough.

 

The whole race experience follows the Japanese cultural element, and runners can expect to be flagged off in grandeur with taiko drummers, an ancient Japanese form of percussion. On top of competing in the relay race, runners will be welcomed to a Matsuri Race Village, also known as a Japanese-themed race village after crossing the finishing line. Matsuri, commonly known in Japan as a festival or holiday, is widely celebrated and Mizuno Ekiden 2015 plans to bring just that to all participants.

 

 

In the Matsuri Race Village, runners can anticipate Japanese gourmet foods such as ramen and sushi, artisan desserts and delectable drinks. There will be Japanese cultural performances and activities for each and everybody. Mizuno Ekiden 2015 aims to provide an all rounded Japanese experience for both the leisure and serious runners.

 

For more information and to register, please visit www.mizukoekiden.sg or www.facebook.com/MizunoEkiden