Runners compete in 2025 Tokyo Marathon

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  • Runners compete in 2025 Tokyo Marathon

About 38,000 athletes have taken part in the 2025 Tokyo Marathon, one of the nation's largest marathon races.

Members of the public who won a lottery were allowed to participate in Sunday's event. Elite runners from both Japan and abroad were also invited. The race started from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building in Shinjuku at around 9 a.m.

A runner in his 50s from Saitama Prefecture said he has taken part in races across the nation, but this is his first Tokyo Marathon thanks to his good luck in the lottery. He said his goal is to complete the race without injury supported by cheers from spectators along the route.

A woman in her 40s from Osaka said the appeal of this event is to be able to run through popular sights of central Tokyo. She said she is looking forward to seeing the Senso-ji temple and the Tokyo Skytree.

The route took runners to Asakusa, Ginza and other iconic spots of the Japanese capital and finished in front of Tokyo Station. People along the route cheered on the runners, and many of them responded by waving their hands.

The runners smiled as they crossed the finish line. A woman in her 50s from Kanagawa Prefecture said it was a little bit hot, but the onlookers encouraged her and she enjoyed the race.

A Tokyo resident in his 60s said he is determined to keep running into his 70s and 80s.

Traffic has been restricted in a wide area around the marathon route. Some roads will be closed to traffic as late as 9 p.m.

Source : NHK