SAYONARA National Stadium FINAL①, Final Fan Run DAY with 2000 participants

The "SAYONARA National Stadium FINAL 'FOR THE FUTURE' Final Fan Run DAY ~Thank you National Stadium~" (organized by the Japan Sports Agency and Nikkan Sports Newspaper) took place on May 31 at the National Stadium in Shinjuku, Tokyo. The Japan Sports Agency has been implementing various initiatives since last year to express respect and gratitude for the National Stadium's half-century history as a beloved sanctuary of sports. On the final day, May 31, a full-day program welcomed the general public and athletes. During the morning's Final Fan Run Day, under a cloudless blue sky, approximately 2,000 participants sweated it out at the National Stadium alongside guest "Legend Runners," bidding a fond farewell to the venue.

The Final Fun Run Day opened with guests appearing at the stadium's North Gate. Following Rakugo storyteller Sanyutei Enraku, known for his resemblance to Toshihiko Seko, the real Seko himself entered alongside Yuko Arimori, Shigeru Mune, and Takeshi Mune. They circled the track, high-fiving participants wearing five-colored T-shirts.

Ms. Arimori smiling and high-fiving participants

Legendary runners running hand-in-hand

Following the ceremony, participants split into four groups to tour the stadium, experiencing its half-century history as the stage for numerous legendary moments. They also enjoyed commemorative photos beneath the Olympic cauldron. Afterwards, dubbed the "remember run," participants freely ran around the stadium course for one hour. Request songs collected beforehand from participants played one after another as background music, while cheerleaders performed alongside the course. Legendary runners held a talk show, sharing memories of the stadium and their hopes for 2020.

General participants sweating it out while cheered on by the cheerleaders

For the finale, Samplaza Nakano-kun held a mini-live concert, passionately singing hits like "Runner" and "Under the Big Onion." He poured his gratitude for the stadium into his songs. Finally, participants formed five rings by color of their T-shirts and simultaneously released balloons to bid farewell to the stadium.

Participants gazed up at the five-colored balloons soaring skyward, reluctant to part with the stadium

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