Believe in yourself: 負けてたまるか大作戦. - Jan. 4, 2024.

Before the race, most people, including myself, believed that "No one can beat Komazawa University." However, the team from Aoyama-Gakuin University did not share this belief. They competed fiercely, overtaking Komazawa's top three runners by the third section and masterfully controlling the race. This incredible feat took place under the banner of “負けてたまるか大作戦,” signifying a refusal to be defeated.

The scene was set at the 100th Hakone Ekiden, a prestigious long-distance relay race from Tokyo to Hakone. Komazawa University's team, winners of the year's All Japan University Ekiden and Izumo Selected University Ekiden, featured strong and swift runners like Mebuki Suzuki, Kotaro Shinohara, and Keita Sato, making them the favorites.

Despite widespread belief in Komazawa's invincibility, Aoyama-Gakuin University's team, led by Manager Mr. Hara, rose to the challenge with the “負けてたまるか大作戦” spirit. Their confidence, born from rigorous training, fueled their belief in their ability to compete against the formidable Komazawa team. This inspiring performance illustrated the power of self-belief. I also learned the importance of setting goals and working diligently towards them to build confidence. The slogan “負けてたまるか大作戦,” initially unclear to me, carried a deep meaning.

This is off-topic, but  I rooted for Toyo University as usual. Over the two-day race, they maintained their 4th place, bringing me relief. Although they have been out of reach of first place recently, there's a glimmer of hope in their journey. I eagerly anticipate the day Toyo University claims victory again, a decade since its last triumph.