A new form of running community presented by New Balance and “Super Sports Xebio LaLaport Toyosu.”

Upon arriving at the finish line, “WILD MAGIC,” the after-party kicked off in the open-air venue. With delicious food and drinks in hand, runners who had just finished the race and staff members shared a pleasant sense of accomplishment.

The highlight of the party was a talk show featuring a star-studded lineup of guests. TV personality Misako Yasuda, actress and model Airi Matsui, and Ryota Ishibashi of the comedy trio Yonsenjushin took the stage to discuss their respective running lifestyles and “why they run.”

Misako Yasuda, who said, “I often go for a run in the morning,” made a particularly striking remark: “The reason I run is to get to know myself.” By stepping away from her daily life as a mother and a TV personality, she clears her mind and reflects on herself. This story perfectly embodied the spirit of “Think & Run,” and the participants nodded in deep agreement.

We spoke with some runners who caught our eye at the event to get their honest feedback on how the gear felt and what the community was like.

A group of volunteers from “FMC STUDIO,” a community formed through travel. When asked about the “FuelCell Flite-R,” they shared a positive impression, saying, “It feels like it really trains your legs’ natural strength, and the sole structure is just right—not too flimsy.” While their style is simple and distinctly runner-like, they smiled and said, “After all, running with friends is the most fun.”

A family living in the neighborhood participated with their young child. “It’s really wonderful to have a running community like this near our home,” they said, expressing their hopes for future community activities. “It was reassuring to experience such a welcoming, homey atmosphere where we could participate with our child without any worries.”

Toward the end of the event, announcements were made regarding the future direction of this community and the scheduled reopening of the “Super Sports Xebio LaLaport Toyosu” store on Friday, September 4. Going forward, the community plans to provide a space where people can “find a purpose for running and make it a habit” through ongoing initiatives, such as sessions where participants can learn proper running form.

It’s not just about working up a sweat—it’s about reexamining “why I run.” This “Think & Run” event brought a fresh perspective and new motivation to the act of running. With the “FuelCell Flite-R” as my partner, I take each step with a purpose. And after the run, amazing friends and experiences await—. This newly launched community is sure to become the ultimate “third place” where many runners can rediscover the joy of running.