Overview of the Race: From the starting line to A3
In my previous article, I shared information about race registration and nearby accommodations. This time, I will provide a race report based on my observations and experiences at each aid station.
Unfortunately, I had to withdraw between WA2 and A6 due to health concerns. Therefore, this report will cover only the sections from the start to WA2.
This installment focuses specifically on the segment from the starting line to A3 (Nolla Naguri).
Official Website for the 2nd Oku-Musashi Long Trail
Section Reports
The Scene at the Starting Line Before the Race
The 105K race starts at 6:00 AM. Many runners who rested in the gymnasium were up by 3:00 AM, preparing for the day ahead with activities like changing, taping, and having breakfast.
I, too, moved to the starting line with my gear by 4:30 AM, ensuring that all my preparations were complete an hour before the race began.
Before the start in Hanno City, a few thin clouds drifted across the sky, while the wooden gate stood watch over the runners eagerly awaiting the race ahead…
At the starting point, tents were set up to provide a well-organized environment, making it easy for runners to prepare for the race.
From the Start to A1: Nenogongen
- Distance: 9 km from the start
- Time Limit: None
The starting time is determined by the estimated completion time submitted during registration. After the race began, we ran on paved roads for approximately 1 km before transitioning to the trail section.
The initial part of the trail consisted of thin, rocky terrain resembling dry tiles, interspersed with scattered stones and featuring a gentle gradient of about 2%. At this point, the later-starting groups naturally divided into those who ran and those who chose to walk.
While conserving energy is understandable, the gentle slopes in this section make running the more efficient option whenever possible.
The gradient becomes steeper just before reaching Nenogongen. If you managed to run earlier, you could handle the steeper incline with a “walking climb” without significant difficulty.
The Atmosphere at the Start
As the race began, the clouds had vanished, leaving the runners bathed in bright morning sunlight. With excitement and determination, they set off toward the trail, ready to embrace the challenges ahead.
From A1 to A2: Haraichiba
- Distance: 27 km from the start
- Time Limit: 7.5 hours from the start
After reaching Nenogongen, the course transitions into a long downhill stretch to A2. Runners who are fatigued and unable to maintain a running pace in this section risk losing valuable time and possibly missing the cut-off.
The gradient in this section is relatively moderate, allowing runners to maintain a steady pace while avoiding falls and collisions.
At A2, the staff provided exceptional support, offering water sprays, sweet snacks, udon noodles, and other refreshments. Chairs and sun visors were available, and both Japanese and international staff enthusiastically encouraged runners with shouts of “Go Go!!” and “Nice Run!!”
The temperature on that day reached nearly 30°C, with strong early-summer sunlight—a memorable scene of vibrant energy at the aid station.
From A2 to A3: Nolla Naguri
- Distance: 41 km from the start
- Time Limit: 12 hours from the start
For first-time participants in the 105K race, this section is a key highlight of the early stages. It features steep uphill climbs followed by sharp, root-covered descents characteristic of the Okumusashi area.
The season just before Japan’s humid summer adds challenges, as the clay-like terrain compacted by heavy foot traffic can be especially difficult for runners unaccustomed to steep descents.
Even experienced local runners who have practiced on the course may find the impact of the Nenogongen descent taxing, potentially causing pace reductions and raising concerns about meeting the cut-off time.
The latter part of the descent feels particularly long. Exiting the forest and spotting buildings does not mean the checkpoint is close. You must also climb a steep concrete slope before reaching the Nolla Naguri checkpoint.
Resting at Nolla Naguri: At Nolla Naguri, the atmosphere was calm as runners took a moment to rest. The sun had begun to set, casting a soft, golden light over the area, creating a tranquil and reflective scene.
Information about Nolla Naguri
Nolla Naguri is an outdoor experience site nestled in the mountains, offering a variety of activities such as BBQ, glamping, and saunas.
Additionally, the nearby Sawarabi Onsen is highly recommended for relaxation and recovery.
- Official website: Nolla naguri
- Official website: Sawarabi Onsen
What Do You Think?
Reaching Nolla Naguri marks a pivotal milestone in the race, with 41 km already covered—nearly half the total distance and much of the climbing behind you. This section tests both endurance and strategy, offering a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of the journey ahead.
Next time, I’ll dive into the night section, exploring the path from A3 to WA2, where I ultimately faced my own limits. Stay tuned for more insights and reflections!
In the next installment, I will review the night section from A3 to WA2, where I had to withdraw. Stay tuned!
