World Marathon Voices A Global Perspective on the Tokyo Marathon Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Race Director Clark Gardner

World Marathon Voices is a special edition of the Interview Relay project celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Tokyo Marathon 2027.

Through conversations with Race Directors and leaders from the Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM), this series shares global perspectives on the Tokyo Marathon—its unique character, its role within the world of marathon running, and the future envisioned by those shaping the sport.

In this edition, Clark Gardner, Race Director of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, shares his perspective on the Tokyo Marathon’s unique appeal, its role within the Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM), and his hopes for its future. Enjoy the interview alongside a selection of stunning images from the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, kindly provided by the race team.

Q1 About the Tokyo Marathon’s Value

How do you perceive the Tokyo Marathon as a race?

The Tokyo Marathon comes across as extremely well organised, almost clinical. The obedience of participants and spectators assists well with the clear directions provided by information and marshals accordingly. The spectators and patrons are extremely polite and well informed, all adding to the professional feel of the race. The deep city route is incredibly well managed for such a large population that rely on the streets and is well entrenched into the heart beat of the city.

What makes it unique compared to other major marathons?
Any specific impressions or experiences would be greatly appreciated.

Although there are a large number of spectators, they are significantly more restrained, polite and respectful all round. It seems the city services are better integrated in the delivery of the event with busses, law enforcement, fire and similar city services all very visible and involved. The different race crews are differently branded with specific jackets showing different positions or roles. It is most certainly the cleanest race with pristine streets, aid stations and flawless organisation. The clear beautiful brand is accentuated with the avoiding of a title sponsor and really heroes the event itself instead.

Q2 Relationship with Your Race

What similarities and differences do you see between your race and the Tokyo Marathon?

There are few similarities and the difference in culture between Japanese and African is very clear. The Tokyo Marathon works clinically and methodically on the entire route where all respect the race and its rules. The Cape Town Marathon is well organised but the crowds are significantly less disciplined. This also brings its own vibe where the singing and dancing showcases the African Spirit.     

What defines the uniqueness of each event from your perspective?

The authentic cultures that originate at each event is what really stands out. The TCS New York City Marathon boroughs that bring a high density of different types of spectators and bands but ends with the iconic Central Park, the TCS London Marathon is similarly authentic to its culture and ends on the Mall…through to the TCS Sydney Marathon presented by ASICS that enjoys a route going through key iconic city landmarks with the finish being at the Opera House. The different feel of local participants and spectators creates the lasting feel for a race and celebrates the unique culture from that city.

Q3 Role in the Global Marathon Landscape

What role do you believe the Tokyo Marathon plays within the global marathon scene, including as part of AbbottWMM?

The Tokyo Marathon is not only a celebration of the unique Japanese culture but also its incredible running culture. It feels as if everyone loves running or spectating in Tokyo. The marathon gets to showcase this love for running but also how a major city can manage millions of people to deliver a marathon in such an organised manner.

Q4 Expectations for the Future

What are your expectations for the future development of the Tokyo Marathon?

I look forward to observing how the Tokyo Marathon manages the unique blend of deep seated traditions and hyper-modern innovation. The race can further showcase how society seamlessly integrates historical heritage, like tea ceremonies and Zen Buddhism, with cutting-edge technology and global pop culture.

What do you believe will be important in further enhancing its value?

Accentuating these authentic two worlds of Japanese culture at the start and finish of the race. The EXPO could also emphasise more of the Japanese culture, its latest innovation and authentic designs rather than be just another retail experience. The EXPO is a chance to tell the Japanese and Tokyo story and the key elements of the old and new culture currently experienced.