Takuma Yamakawa of Komazawa University (right) reports the joy of winning the Hakone Ekiden overall to Mayor Masanori Shiratori.
Takuma Yamakawa (19), the winning member of Komazawa University who won the 8th overall victory for the first time in 2 years at the 99th Tokyo Hakone Round Trip University Ekiden Race (2nd and 3rd), was on the 5th. I returned to my hometown of Minowa. He visits mayor Masanori Shiratori at the town hall to report his joy at contributing to the team’s victory. Looking ahead to the next tournament, he pledged to make even greater progress, saying, “I want to do my best throughout the year so that I can win the section prize.”
Komazawa University conquered both the outbound and return trips. Yamakawa ran the 5th section of mountain climbing on the outbound route. After receiving the sash in 1st place, just one second behind 2nd place, he cut the finish tape while maintaining the top position with a stable run. His own record is 1:10:45, 4th in the section. He recalled, “I ran out of energy in the second half and slowed down, but I didn’t want to lose.”
It is said that when he was in Jono, he trained in areas such as the Kayano Plateau, which is regarding 1,200 meters above sea level. I am grateful to Furusato, who has a suitable environment. He expressed his gratitude for the support of many residents, and expressed his aspirations, saying, “I want to run in District 5 once more next year. I hope I can win the section award and give back to the community.” Mayor Shiratori praised Yamakawa’s performance and thanked him, saying, “It’s been a good PR for the town.”
Before the courtesy visit, a ceremony was held in the town hall. A large number of residents and staff who were waiting for Yamakawa’s arrival enthusiastically welcomed him, saying, “Congratulations,” and “The pride of the town.” When Yamakawa received the bouquet, he happily accepted the photo shoot.