YOKOHAMA NORTH DOCK, Japan – The Yokohama North Dock Running Festival, an exciting display of athletic prowess and community spirit, attracted nearly 3,000 enthusiastic Japanese and American runners on November 3 to compete in a variety of races.
The festival featured not just the intense competition of 5K, 10K, and half-marathon races, but also fostered a sense of community. Despite the persistent rainy weather, runners showed an infectious enthusiasm for the day filled with friendly rivalry at the U.S. installation.
Col. Marcus Hunter, the commander of U.S. Army Garrison Japan at Camp Zama, eagerly joined in the 10K race. He noted that the Yokohama North Dock, as a USAG Japan facility, provides an excellent venue for large-scale running events, drawing participation from both American servicemen and local Japanese runners.
“We had a great turnout,” Hunter remarked, adding, “It’s a little rainy, but it ends up being a perfect day to run in.” His comments reflected the overall positive atmosphere despite the weather challenges.
Hunter acknowledged the joy expressed by participants and extended his gratitude to all personnel who worked diligently to guarantee the event’s success and safety.
The running festival stands out as the singular event hosted by USAG Japan at Yokohama North Dock, offering a unique occasion for the U.S. Army to engage positively with the Yokohama community through a beloved sporting event. Randy Benton, the special events coordinator from Camp Zama’s Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, emphasized its significance.
Participation numbers have steadily risen over the years, a testament to growing awareness and interest within the local community. Given the festival’s stunning location overlooking the picturesque Yokohama Bay, Benton predicts that interest in the event will only intensify moving forward.
“Giving the local runners the chance to run on a U.S. installation that they would not normally have access to is a win-win situation for both USAG Japan and the local community,” Benton asserted, illustrating the mutual benefits of the collaborative event.
Tsuyoshi Yamamoto, who clinched first place in the 5K division, expressed his excitement at returning for the event after previously competing in the 10K before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted community activities.
“I work near the installation and have been training for the race,” Yamamoto shared proudly. “I was happy that I had the chance to come back and to win.” His dedication and enthusiasm shone through in his remarks about the event.
Yamamoto praised the course’s navigability and friendliness to runners, explaining how the large number of participants provided a significant boost to his motivation. He too echoed Benton’s sentiments, appreciating the rare opportunity to race on a U.S. military installation.
“I am looking forward to the next opportunity that I get to run here,” Yamamoto eagerly anticipated, looking ahead to future events with excitement.
**Interview with Col. Marcus Hunter, Commander of U.S. Army Garrison Japan**
**Interviewer**: Col. Hunter, thank you for joining us today! First, can you tell us how the Yokohama North Dock Running Festival went this year?
**Col. Hunter**: Thank you for having me! The Running Festival was a fantastic event, attracting nearly 3,000 runners, both Japanese and American. Despite the persistent rain, which can sometimes deter participants, the atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and camaraderie.
**Interviewer**: It sounds like a great turnout! What do you think contributed to the strong participation?
**Col. Hunter**: The community aspect is crucial. The festival offered a variety of race options, including 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances, catering to all skill levels. This diversity invites a wide range of runners, fostering a sense of friendly rivalry and community spirit.
**Interviewer**: You participated in the 10K race yourself. How was your experience?
**Col. Hunter**: It was exhilarating! Running alongside both servicemen and local residents really highlighted the connection we have with the community. I’d say the rainy weather ended up being a blessing in disguise—it kept us cool and made for a perfect day to run!
**Interviewer**: That’s a positive outlook! What are some of your key takeaways from the event?
**Col. Hunter**: I was really struck by the joy and enthusiasm of all the participants. It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone involved in organizing the event. I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to all the personnel who worked tirelessly to ensure everything went smoothly and safely.
**Interviewer**: Lastly, are you looking forward to next year’s event on November 2, 2024?
**Col. Hunter**: Absolutely! We’re already excited about planning for next year. I encourage everyone—especially SOFA personnel and family members—to join us for another fantastic day of running and community togetherness.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Col. Hunter, for your insights and for being part of this wonderful event!
**Col. Hunter**: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing everyone next year!
