Sports

Beach Sprint Debuts in Japan: Sports Meet Environmental Awareness

KANAGAWA, Dec 22 (News On Japan) - The "Beach Sprint," a 50-meter race on sandy beaches featuring sprinters and lifeguards, made its debut in Japan at Yuigahama Beach in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture. Approximately 100 participants, including elementary and junior high school students, took part in the event.

Although strong winds led to the cancellation of the competition midway, athletes gave their all as they sprinted across the shore. Prior to the races, participants joined a beach cleanup. They also took part in activities such as a quiz on environmental issues and a workshop where they created keychains using microplastics.

The Beach Sprint exemplifies a “nature-driven sport.” It is held exclusively on beaches certified as "Blue Flag Beaches," meeting strict standards for cleanliness, safety, and accessibility. Beyond its competitive appeal, the event serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage concrete conservation efforts.

This year’s event was held at Yuigahama Beach, the first beach in Asia to receive Blue Flag certification in 2016. From 2025, Beach Sprint events are planned to expand to other Blue Flag-certified beaches across Japan.

Source: ANN

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