Mizuno Ekiden is an annual marathon race in Singapore that incorporates the ekiden concept, a Japanese long-distance relay race concept. Organised by Mizuno Singapore, Mizuno Corporation's regional headquarters for Asia Pacific, it is the first dedicated ekiden race in Singapore with no individual runner categories. The race is also Japanese themed with a matsuri (Japanese festival) race village at the finish line. The race village features Japanese cultural performances, booths selling Japanese cuisine and traditional games.
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Race mechanics
Runners race in teams of four, each covering a quarter of the marathon distance. During the race, runners wear the traditional tasuki sash. After the first runner finishes his leg of the race, he enters the transition area where his teammates are waiting, and passes on the sash to the next runner in his team. This repeats until the fourth runner finishes his leg.
2015
Mizuno Ekiden’s inaugural race was held on the 18th July 2015 at The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay. Infinitus was the appointed events organiser.
2016
The 2016 race will take place on 16 July, 4pm at The Promontory @ Marina Bay. The race is also held in conjunction with SJ50, a commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Singapore–Japan normalized ties.