Marunouchi Ekiden long-distance relay race to be held on March 17

The popular Marunouchi Ekiden long-distance relay race will be held on Sunday March 17, around the outer garden of the Imperial Palace. The event invites 160 teams of four to enter, for those age of 20 and over, interested in running and who work in the Marunouchi area.

The runners will start at Sakurada Gate and run the length around the outer garden of the Imperial Palace (about five kilometers) before passing the baton to their teammate for a total of four laps per team. A portion of the registration fee will go toward supporting residents in temporary housing facilities in the town of Minamisanriku, Miyagi Prefecture, and other areas affected by the 3/11 earthquake and tsunami.

In addition, a portion of fees will go toward supporting the manner awareness campaign for runners in the area and around the Imperial Palace.

Date & time: Sunday March 17, beginning at 10 a.m.

Participants: Up to 160 teams of four

Participation fee: 10,000 yen per team (includes runner’s insurance)

Additional details:

· Anyone age 20 and over may participate in the race.

· The race will go on rain or shine.

· No showers, lockers or changing rooms will be provided.

· Registration requires online submission of an entry form submitted.

Registration is open to the public and concludes 1 p.m. on Wednesday Feb 20. Sign-up is limited to 160 teams (if applicants exceed 160, a lottery for official entries will be held). For additional details and registration form, please click here.

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