Aoyama Gakuin's Shota Shiode Sets New Record in Hakone Ekiden's 8th Leg, A Run Filled with Gratitude and Team Spirit
Shota Shiode of Aoyama Gakuin University achieved a historic feat in the 8th leg of the 102nd Hakone Ekiden. Shiode recorded an astonishing time of 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 45 seconds (preliminary), setting a new section record ('kukan-shin') for the first time in seven years. Furthermore, he accomplished the remarkable achievement of winning the section award for the third consecutive year in this leg, thrilling many track and field fans. Shiode's run was more than just fast; it was deeply moving. After the race, he expressed profound gratitude to Tanaka-san, who was unable to run the section. "Tanaka-san injured his leg and couldn't run the 8th leg, so I ended up running it. He sent me off with such good spirits, which allowed me to win the section award. If I ever win the section award for the 8th leg again, I want Tanaka-san to be the commentator," Shiode said, expressing his strong bond with his teammate and his gratitude. In response, announcer Tanaka-san ...