Representing Team Kyokuyo were three determined challengers: Mr. Umemoto and Mr. Okamoto (Ta.) from the Hull Outfitting Section, and myself, Tsukamoto from the Quality Assurance Department.

The Kaikyō Marathon is known for its scenic coastal route, with views of the Kanmon Straits in the first half and the Hibiki-nada Sea in the latter. But don’t let the scenery fool you — the second half throws in a brutal series of hills with elevation changes of 40–50 meters, making this course a true test of endurance.

Undeterred, the three of us began training in earnest three months before the race — squeezing in practice runs between work and braving the scorching summer heat. Just making it to the starting line felt like an accomplishment! After a quick commemorative photo, we set off at 8:30 a.m., decked out in our custom-made Kyokuyo Marathon Club T-shirts (inspired by our colleagues in the Kyokuyo BLUE STARS cutter team — no way we were going to let them have all the fun).

While we enjoyed the refreshing sea breeze through the Kanmon Straits, the steep incline and winds atop Hikoshima Bridge nearly crushed our spirits. Cramping legs, unexpected stumbles — the day had its share of drama. And though we're not sure we hit our time goals (let's just say we gave it everything we had!), we’re proud to report that all three of us crossed the finish line. The sense of achievement was incredible.

What meant even more, though, were the cheers from the sidelines. Hearing shouts of “Go Kyokuyo!” and receiving warm encouragement from fellow runners — some even saying, “Didn’t know Kyokuyo was running too — let’s do this together!” — truly lifted our spirits.

Next year, we hope to rally even more Kyokuyo colleagues to join the challenge, not just to beat our personal bests but to help energize our local community. See you at the 2026 Kaikyō Marathon!