Episode 190 - A Review of the Tokyo Marathon with Jonathan Greenwald

Rust Belt Running

Summary

Jonathan Greenwald shares his experience running the Tokyo Marathon, including the challenges of traveling to Tokyo, finding food options, and navigating COVID-19 protocols. He discusses the underwhelming expo experience and the logistics of race day, including getting to the start and dealing with congestion. Jonathan also highlights the unique porta potty setup on the course. Jonathan shares his experience running the Tokyo Marathon, discussing race logistics, water stops, crowd support, course organization, and the finish line experience. He also reflects on running after the pandemic and offers words of encouragement to fellow runners.

Takeaways

• Traveling to Tokyo for the marathon can be challenging, with multiple deferrals and uncertainty due to COVID-19.

• Finding food options in Tokyo is not a problem, with convenience stores offering high-quality meals and a variety of cuisines available.

• The Tokyo Marathon expo can be underwhelming compared to other major marathons, with limited merchandise and long lines for popular items.

• Race day logistics, including getting to the start and dealing with congestion, can be challenging but well-organized.

• The unique porta potty setup on the course ensures runners have access to facilities without disrupting the race. The Tokyo Marathon has well-organized logistics and frequent water stops every few miles.

• Crowd support in Tokyo is minimal, with spectators offering golf claps and quiet encouragement.

• The course is clearly marked and offers scenic views of the city, including Akihabara and shrines.

• The final 200 meters of the race are emotional and rewarding, with enthusiastic volunteers and a sense of accomplishment.

• Running after the pandemic can be mentally challenging, but staying motivated and continuing to run can lead to future successes.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Support

05:36 Choosing Tokyo Marathon

07:23 Traveling to Tokyo

09:25 Food in Tokyo

10:41 Entering Japan

12:20 Hotel and Accommodation

14:18 Food Options in Tokyo

16:54 COVID-19 Protocols

19:47 Expo Experience

22:16 Race Day Logistics

25:30 Getting to the Start

26:53 Gear Check and Porta Potties

38:55 Congestion at the Start

40:23 Race Logistics and Water Stops

42:21 Crowd Support and Quiet Moments

48:35 Course Organization and Markings

53:51 Final 200 Meters and Finish Line Experience

1:02:43 Running After the Pandemic

1:04:48 Closing Remarks