Sports

Thousands Take On Grueling Uphill Sprint in Japan

SAPPORO, May 18 (News On Japan) - The "Red Bull 400," billed as the world's toughest 400-meter race, was held on May 17th at the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium in Sapporo. The venue, known for hosting international ski jumping competitions, challenged participants to climb a 37-degree slope under intense physical strain.

The race, which tests runners over a 400-meter course with a 130-meter elevation gain from the base to the top, marked its eighth edition this year. A record 1,798 participants took part, competing in individual men’s and women’s divisions as well as mixed four-person relay teams. Many struggled up the steep incline with pained expressions, striving to reach the finish line.

Among them was Kahori Murakami from Sapporo, who participated for the third time alongside her husband. Reflecting on the race, she said, "I was overwhelmed by the constant cheers and was moved to tears." Yasunobu Taneichi, an office worker from Hakodate, joined with eight exercise companions. Completing the course on his first try, he smiled and said, "I felt a huge sense of accomplishment. The view of Sapporo from the finish line was beautiful."

Source: 産経ニュース

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