Press Release: Mizuno Singapore launches first ever full-fledged Ekiden Race in Singapore

Mizuno Singapore launches first ever full-fledged Ekiden Race in Team spirit-focused ekiden run will be the first of its kind and aims to instil Japanese values of Singapore teamwork and perseverance

(SINGAPORE, 31 March 2015) – Mizuno kicks it up a notch as they introduced today the first full-fledged Ekiden race in Singapore. Targeting at least 5,000 participants, the inaugural race, which will be the first of its kind in Singapore, will take place on 18 July 2015 at The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay.

Striving to deliver an experience that will focus on Japanese values such as teamwork, performance and perseverance, the Mizuno Ekiden 2015 will showcase the concept of relay running that has stemmed from Japan and has been incredibly popular since its inception.

In the Japanese language, Ekiden is a term referring to a long-distance relay running race. 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 changeover 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 the Japanese cultural activities planned in the Matsuri race village and thereafter proceed to the Finish Line to warmly welcome their team mates.

Incorporating the Japanese cultural element into the overall race experience, 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 such as ramen and sushi, artisan desserts and delectable drinks, among others. Coupled with Japanese cultural performances and activities for all, Mizuno Ekiden 2015 aims to provide an all rounded Japanese experience for both the leisure and serious runners.

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, encouraging each other to carry on when the going gets tough.

“Singapore is a country with a large and passionate running community, with runs and races available in all manners of capacity. With Mizuno Ekiden 2015, we hope to show Singaporeans the importance and value of camaraderie, teamwork and a strong support system. As much as running is an individual sport, we want to instil in participants the discipline required to work as a unit and to understand the rhythms and limitations of each teammate; after all, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link” said Mr Kiyoshi Tatani, President of Mizuno Singapore