#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo2025 #RUNS #KK Line

Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships Opening Event: RUNS: INTO KK

On September 12, 2025, Tokyo will host a thrilling pre-event titled "RUNS: INTO KK" just a day before the opening of the highly anticipated World Athletics Championships. This exciting event aims to build momentum and excitement around the championships while providing a unique and immersive running experience.

What is RUNS: INTO KK?

The name "RUNS: INTO KK" reflects the journey of runners coming together, symbolizing a moment where the spirit of encouragement brings people closer through the act of running. The event will take place on the KK Line, a road usually reserved for vehicles, allowing participants to enjoy the road in an extraordinary way.

Event Details

• - Date: September 12, 2025 (Friday)
• - Time: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM
• - Location: KK Line (Tokyo Expressway)
• - Co-hosts: Tokyo 2025 World Athletics Championships Foundation & Tokyo Marathon Foundation

More details can be found on the official website: RUNS: INTO KK

Event Features

The RUNS: INTO KK event promises a variety of engaging activities:

• - 1 Mile RUNS: INTO KK: A 1.6 km race (approximately 500 participants) aimed at families and juniors, with entry on a first-come, first-served basis.
• - GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ Challenge: Participants will aim to break the record for the most individuals to run 100 meters in a one-hour relay, currently held at 252 participants outdoors.
• - Half Marathon Relay RUNS: INTO KK: This night-time relay encourages participants to experience the thrill of running along the KK Line, with official supporter selection teams set to participate as well.

How to Participate in the Half Marathon Relay

Participants must engage in the Virtual RUNS: INTO KK to qualify for the Half Marathon Relay:
1. Register as Team Captain:
- Sign up for the Virtual RUNS: INTO KK and connect the ASICS Runkeeper™ app with the official website.
- Registration Period: June 5 - 26, 2025.
2. Complete the Virtual RUN:
- Participants must run a total distance of 20.25 km, which can be completed over multiple attempts. Note that combining distances with other participants is not allowed.
- Event period: July 1 - 21, 2025.
3. Chance to Participate:
- Team entries will be drawn for the Half Marathon Relay, allowing the chosen captain to gather a team of up to 10 members for the event.

Additional entry options are available via an official supporter selection team, where participation will also include social media engagement requirements.

Meet the Official Supporters

The event will feature five athlete influencers as official supporters:

• - Miki Shimura: A multi-talented running influencer known for her achievements in national competitions and her roles in modeling and event guest appearances.
• - Honoka Jinzai: A multi-athlete focused on Spartan races, she transitioned from track and field to Spartan racing and aims to represent Japan in modern pentathlon at the Olympics.
• - Miaan Fujimura: A PR and marketing professional who actively contributes as a running influencer, she balances her corporate work with roles in modeling and event participation.
• - Takaya Mitsuka: A well-known running influencer with guest appearances at marathons across Japan, boasting a social media following of over 800,000.
• - Yoshiki: A YouTube content creator specializing in making athletics enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their prior knowledge of the sport.

For inquiries, please contact the International Sports Division of the Tokyo Sports Promotion Headquarters at 03-5388-2884.

KK Line Overview

The KK Line, located at the boundary of Chiyoda, Chuo, and Minato wards, was a dedicated road for vehicles, measuring approximately 2 km in length. However, as of April 2025, it has been designated for closure to transform into a pedestrian-friendly public space, enhancing community access and interaction.