English edition

I watched the Hakone Ekiden (return leg) until the end.

At the start of the new year, for those who have encountered unexpected events, there is nothing to do but mourn.

It's true that the future is unknown. Yet, people somehow manage to get through it and move forward (I hope).

Let's not look back in negativity, but find hope (I wish).

Starting next year, I'm set to move to Kanagawa, and it turns out that the street where I'll be living is part of the Hakone Ekiden course.

So, I decided to watch the Hakone Ekiden for the first time, feeling a newfound sense of local pride.

The sight of the students running was beautiful.

Which university will come in first, the section records, the seedings, and so on,

there's someone on TV explaining all these various things.

Hmm, I see. The changing of positions is completely beyond me.

I was mesmerized by the sight of these young people running so lively and briskly.

Humans are born, they learn to walk, and then to run. Walking and running are the basics of human nature.

Running up and down the mountain paths.

Running while feeling the sea breeze.

Running to the cheers of many people.

Just watching the runners, who run relaxed and balanced, puts me in a good mood.

The anchor runner of the winning university was lifted in celebration.

The coach was lifted up too, and so was the captain.

The celebrations continued one after another.

Using only their own bodies to run against the wind..

It must feel refreshing and pleasant, I imagine.

I don't have the confidence to run against the wind with just my own body.

But with a horse, I know the comfort of running through the wind.

Leaving it to the horse, I'll quietly sit in the saddle, making sure not to disturb its movements.

Somehow, I'm now looking forward to my first ride of the year, the day after tomorrow…"

-English edition