Interview Relay

Interview Relay 2nd Run: Stories of “Connections Between People” Born Through the Tokyo Marathon. This time, we introduce a story of connection by Tomo, who started running with his daughter after participating in the Tokyo Marathon Family Run. Running has now become a vital part of their daily bond.

Growth Lies in the Process of Continuing, Not Just the Result

It all started when I ran through Otemachi with my daughter during the Tokyo Marathon Family Run. At the time, I simply thought, “It would be nice to run together.” But since that day, running has become a part of our daily lives. What began as practice for the Family Run has turned into a two-year journey. Now we run side by side almost every morning.

She starts with a sleepy face, but by the end of the run, her face lights up with a big smile. We talk about school, her friends, and sometimes even her dreams for the future. The time spent running has become the most precious space for our communication. Through running, I feel I’ve shifted from being a parent who “teaches” to a partner who “takes on challenges together” at the same eye level.

I’ve realized that running does more than just build physical strength; it nurtures the heart. When my daughter said, “It’s a bit tough today, but I want to go further than yesterday,” I realized that true growth isn’t found in the result, but in the process of keeping at it. I also learned the importance of “leading by example.” The commitment to stay consistent and never give up speaks louder than words. Through running, I feel I am growing not only as a parent but as a human being.

Life Becomes Richer When You Run with Someone

My dream is to one day run a full marathon with my daughter. Until then, I want to be able to say with pride, “Your father never stopped running.” That is why I feel a strong calling to run the Tokyo Marathon—a milestone 20th anniversary event—as my starting point.

Running isn’t just for a select few. When you run with someone, life becomes so much richer. I want to keep running until my daughter is old enough to enter a full marathon. Along the way, I want to keep showing her what it looks like to challenge oneself and stay the course.

I couldn’t be happier if this small story of a father and daughter, connected by the Tokyo Marathon, inspires someone else to take their first step.