What they thought and felt after the 100 km run.
What were Yamamoto and Shibayama thinking during the "FTR Chichibu & Okumusashi" race? And what were they thinking and feeling when they finished the 100 km race? We asked them to sum up the race.
Anyway, the hospitality of the aides is very high!
I am relieved to have made it to the finish line. Above all, there were many more minor ups and downs than on the elevation chart, the scenery was scarce, and there were no spectacular, eye-opening views. The hospitality of the aid stations was a huge relief in the midst of the tough, training-like course. In addition to a wide variety of local specialties, such as pork miso soup, beef bowls, oden, carbonated juice, and hot drinks, the volunteer staff was just as energetic and friendly. Every time I arrived at an aid station, I received a lot of energy, both physically and mentally. To be honest, I was not very enthusiastic about this race in terms of the course, but when I actually participated in the race, I could feel the warm atmosphere and the personality of Okkun (Shunsuke Okumiya), the organizer of this race, everywhere. FTR Chichibu & Okumusashi" is a great way to experience the charm of the Chichibu & Okumusashi area from many angles. Why not include it in your race plans for next year? Hiroshi Yamamoto)
A grueling race to remember.
It was in May of this year that I was asked by a representative of adidas, "Would you like to participate in the FTR? I decided that if I was going to run, I wanted to run 100 kilometers. I decided that if I was going to run the race, I would run 100 kilometers, and I thought I still had half a year to go so I could practice, but before I knew it, it was race day. I had been so nervous ever since November, either because of a lack of confidence or because of the toughness of the race I had heard so much about. But once I arrived at the race venue, all my fears were dispelled. Surrounded by the enthusiasm of the runners, I felt like I had no choice but to do it! I was determined to finish the race. And then it was time to start. I thought I could go for it in the beginning, but after the fourth aid station, I found myself on an endless trail of rough roots, and my legs and mentality completely failed me. I remember feeling hopeless... (laughs). (Laughs) But I was able to keep running because of my longing to complete the 100 km, and the sight of the runners who kept going even though they were exhausted. I was also saved many times by the aid staff who continued to support me throughout the night. After finishing the race, I think it is okay to push yourself relentlessly at least once a year. Even if you are in the city, there is always something to do anyway. Physical experiences will remain in your memory for a long time. Through "FTR Chichibu & Okumusashi," I have another unforgettable memory. Hideki Shibayama)
