Hakone Ekiden: Aoyama Gakuin University Parade Draws 30,000 Fans – Coach Hara Eyes Future Dominance

Hakone Ekiden: Aoyama Gakuin University Parade Draws 30,000 Fans – Coach Hara Eyes Future Dominance

January 25, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Health

On January 25, 2026, Aoyama Gakuin University (青学大) celebrated its third consecutive and ninth overall victory in the Hakone Ekiden with a parade and victory celebration in Sagamihara City, the location of its practice campus. The event drew an estimated 30,000 supporters and community members.

A Celebration of Athletic Achievement and Community Ties

The victory celebration and parade began at 2:00 PM, quickly filling the sidewalks around JR Fuchinobe Station with fans and local residents. Players and Head Coach Harada greeted the crowd from an open bus. The event underscored the strong relationship between the university and the Sagamihara community.

Did You Know? Aoyama Gakuin University’s Sagamihara Campus was established in 2003, fostering a long-standing connection with the local community.

Coach Harada highlighted the university’s appreciation for Sagamihara, specifically mentioning local businesses frequented by students for lunch and evening meals. He expressed a commitment to continuing the tradition of celebrating future victories within the community. Captain Kuroda Asahi, who led the fifth leg and significantly contributed to the team’s win, also addressed the crowd, expressing his gratitude for the continued support.

Looking Ahead: A Focus on Flat-Ground Speed

Following the parade, Coach Harada discussed the team’s future strategy. He indicated a focus on developing greater speed on flat terrain, aiming for “overwhelming strength” in future competitions. He believes the team’s depth of talent provides a strong foundation for achieving this goal, with a target of having all runners complete 10,000 meters in under 27 minutes.

Expert Insight: The emphasis on flat-ground speed suggests a strategic adaptation to potential course variations and a proactive approach to maintaining competitive dominance. Developing a broader range of running strengths could prove crucial in future Hakone Ekiden races.

Kuroda Asahi, who is scheduled to compete in the Beppu-Oita Mainichi Marathon on February 1st, acknowledged some lingering fatigue from the Hakone Ekiden but expressed confidence in his ability to perform well. He emphasized the motivating effect of the overwhelming fan support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Aoyama Gakuin University to hold a parade?

Aoyama Gakuin University held a parade to celebrate their victory in the 102nd Hakone Ekiden, marking their third consecutive and ninth overall win.

Where was the parade held?

The parade was held around JR Fuchinobe Station, near the university’s Sagamihara Campus.

What are Aoyama Gakuin University’s plans for the future?

Coach Harada stated the team intends to focus on improving speed on flat terrain, aiming for all runners to complete 10,000 meters in under 27 minutes.

How might the strong community support influence the team’s performance in upcoming races?