Part 3: My Journey Through the Race – From A3 to WA2 and My Decision to Drop Out
In my previous article, I provided an overview of the race, covering the segment from the starting point to the A3 checkpoint.
While I aimed to complete the race, unforeseen health issues compelled me to make the difficult decision to drop out between WA2 and A6.
In this article, I will describe the challenges I faced and the memorable moments I experienced as I passed through A3 (Nolla Naguri), A4, and WA2.
I will also reflect on the circumstances that led to my decision to retire from the race.
Official Website for the 2nd Oku-Musashi Long Trail
Section Reports
From A3 to A4 (Naguri Genki Plaza)
- Distance: 59 km from the start
- Time Limit: 21 hours from the start
- Poles Allowed: Yes
Be sure to hydrate adequately at the A3 aid station and consider wearing gloves if necessary, especially for those whose work depends on their hands.
Most runners are expected to face both twilight and nighttime during this section. I entered this section at 5:50 PM, when the sun had already begun to set. From this point onward, trekking poles were permitted, and headlamps and backlights became essential after sunset.
The section starts with narrow uphill paths flanked by tall grass. Using trekking poles, I managed these inclines with relative ease. After the climb, the trail opens up, transitioning to rugged paths lined with tree roots.
The route follows the ridgeline deep into the Okumusashi mountains. To my left was an abyss of darkness, while to my right, the city lights of Hannō created a surreal contrast.
Through the beam of my headlamp, I glimpsed Hannō’s lights, a vivid reminder of the bustling life below. It evoked a brief sense of solitude, though the red tail lights of runners ahead and the white headlamps behind reassured me that I wasn’t alone.
The lights of Hannō and Okumusashi show that many people are still busy with their activities.
Occasionally, deer crossed my path. They weren’t aggressive—just silent onlookers in this nocturnal adventure.
On steep climbs, race staff were stationed to ensure safety and assist runners if necessary. Sweepers followed closely behind, guiding runners who were struggling or at risk of disqualification. Their quiet but persistent presence motivated me to push forward, though my legs faltered on the steep ascents. My energy was nearing its limit.
Finally, after a long and grueling descent, I reached Naguri Genki Plaza.
At this A4 station, runners were welcomed with warm miso soup and compact rice balls. Additionally, drop bags prepared earlier were available, allowing runners to change clothes or restock their supplies.
About Naguri Genki Plaza:
While it was pitch-black during the race, Naguri Genki Plaza is usually a facility offering camping and outdoor activities for both children and adults. It’s an excellent place to visit outside of race season!
Naguri genki plaza website: http://www.naguri-genki.com/
From A4 to A5 (Visitor Center)
- Distance: 72 km from the start
- Time Limit: 21 hours from the start
This section began in darkness and transitioned to dawn, with the rising sun gradually dispelling the fatigue of the night. This was my first experience of an overnight race, which made this segment particularly memorable, although I was too exhausted at the time to fully appreciate it.
After leaving A4, the course started with a gentle paved incline before entering the mountains. There, I encountered irregular, steep steps made from logs. Their uneven heights and widths were physically demanding. Although it was a short section, the relentless up-and-down movement drained my energy. With my hands on my knees, I focused on advancing one step at a time.
At this point, I realized it was unlikely that I would complete the remaining sections within the time limits. I reached the Visitor Center at 7:20 AM, with less than an hour remaining before the cut-off.
At the Visitor Center, staff served warm corn soup and bread for breakfast. The soup was so delicious that I had two servings! Some runners took naps here, but I couldn’t afford to rest. After a quick stop, I pushed on to the next section.
From A5 to WA2 (Atera Suwa Temple) and A6 (Cho-nen Temple)
- Distance: 96 km from the start
- Time Limit: 34 hours from the start
This turned out to be my final trail section of the race. By this time, the sun had fully risen, and its heat bore down on me even more intensely than the day before.
After leaving A5, the course featured an endless uphill stretch of pavement, followed by gravel roads. Despite my exhaustion, I had to maintain a brisk walking pace, as running was no longer an option.
As I continued, the number of runners ahead gradually diminished, and eventually, I found myself completely alone. My focus wavered, and at one point, I lost the trail. Even after eating, I felt unwell, and my progress slowed to a crawl.
Eventually, I reached WA2, a simple water station where I rehydrated and took a brief rest before attempting to move on.
However, by this point, my body refused to cooperate. Despite my best efforts, I couldn’t regain my rhythm. The second-day runners soon overtook me at remarkable speeds, and the constant need to step aside to yield the path further slowed me down.
In the end, the inevitable occurred. A staff member approached, and I officially declared my withdrawal from the race.
Reflections and Next Steps
My Okumusashi Long Trail Race journey came to an end after 90 km and 32 hours.
After retiring, my mentor—who had already completed the race—picked me up. At the starting area, I officially confirmed my withdrawal, collected my belongings, and changed in one of the temporary tents, my legs trembling from the strain.
From a distance, I could see runners crossing the finish line, cheered on by announcers and staff. The combination of pride and sadness was overwhelming.
This race was my first overnight trail race. Although I felt disappointment, it was an unforgettable experience. The meticulous organization and the dedication of the race staff left a lasting impression on me.
And my frustration? I’ve turned it into motivation. It’s hanging on my wall as a reminder to conquer this challenge next year. I’ve already started training for my comeback!
Thank you for your support, and I’ll see you on the trails again!
