2025 Winner Interview｜Mr. Yoonsic Yoo

How did you feel when you found out you were selected?

“I was absolutely thrilled and couldn’t believe it at first. The moment I received the confirmation email, I immediately shared the exciting news with my wife. Tokyo holds a very special place in our hearts because I proposed to her at the Tokyo Marathon last year. We celebrated together, knowing how incredibly meaningful and emotional it is for me to return and run in the very city where we promised our future.”

How did you prepare for Tokyo Marathon 2026, and what were your thoughts going into the race?

“I prepared rigorously through the harsh winter, focusing on high-mileage long runs and track intervals, fueled by a burning desire to achieve a Sub-3 finish in Tokyo. Going into the race, I was full of confidence and excitement, aiming to push my physical limits and make that dream a reality on the beautiful streets of Tokyo.”

Race Experience

What was the most memorable moment for you on race day?

“The most memorable part of the race was unexpectedly battling the heat and the intense physical toll it took on me in the later stages. However, what kept me going was the changing scenery that felt like a panoramic movie. Starting from the towering skyscrapers of Shinjuku, passing by the traditional charm of Senso-ji, running through the glamorous streets of Ginza, and catching a glimpse of the iconic Tokyo Tower—pushing through that extreme exhaustion while being surrounded by these stunning landmarks is a memory I will never forget. It was a beautiful contrast between my physical struggle and the breathtaking city.”

Was there any particular moment or encounter during the 42.195km that moved you?

“Around the 35km mark, when my pace started to drop significantly due to the heat and my legs felt like lead, the relentless and passionate cheering from the citizens lining the streets truly moved me. Their unwavering support gave me the mental strength to keep moving forward and cross the finish line in 3:07:33.”

Experience & Change

Is there a person or moment from Tokyo Marathon 2026 that left a strong impression on you?

“The flawless organization of the event and the endless smiles of the volunteers left a profound impression on me. Even when the runners were suffering from the heat, the volunteers’ energy never faded.”

How has this experience changed you?

“The intense heat and the ‘wall’ I hit in Tokyo acted as the ultimate ‘vaccine’ for my running journey. It taught me true resilience and how to manage a crisis during a race. Thanks to the mental toughness I built in Tokyo, I was able to achieve my dream of a Sub-3 finish (2:59:49) at the Seoul Marathon just two weeks later. Tokyo completely transformed my mindset.”

Reflection

Now that you have finished, what does the Tokyo Marathon mean to you?

“To me, the Tokyo Marathon is a beautiful and demanding proving ground. It is the place that broke me down, only to build me back up stronger than I ever thought possible.”

How would you describe your experience in one sentence?

“Tokyo broke my limits so I could break my records.”

Tokyo Marathon 2025 Interview Relay – Mr. Yoonsic Yoo’s story here