Nishio Marathon Selected for the First Time in "The 26th National Running Race Top 100"
The Nishio Marathon, held in Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture, has been selected for the first time in "The 26th National Running Race Top 100," chosen from major domestic races based on runner evaluations. Its unique local food aid stations, scenic course, warm support from over 2,000 volunteers, and proactive SNS communication were highly praised.
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- 📰 Published: May 14, 2026 at 02:00
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The Nishio Marathon, a full marathon event held in Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture, has been selected for the first time in "The 26th National Running Race Top 100," which is chosen from major domestic races.
This "Top 100 Races" selection is based on the genuine feedback from runners posted on the "RUNNET Race Report" evaluation site, operated by the R-bies Sports Foundation, during the one-year period from January to December 2025. This is the first time the Nishio Marathon has been selected. The target race was the 3rd event held on Sunday, January 19, 2025, with 6,410 participants entering the full marathon category and 5,771 runners starting.
*Image quoted from the R-bies Sports Foundation press release.
**Runner Evaluation Points**
The 3rd Nishio Marathon received its highest-ever evaluation score of 90.3 points on Race Report (*). Here are five main evaluation points from various runner comments:
1. **Aid stations offering local specialties such as "Isshiki Eel" and "Nishio Matcha"**
Hospitality with Nishio's food, including local brands like "Isshiki Eel," "Nishio Matcha," and "Mikawa Isshiki Shrimp Crackers," as well as popular aid station menus like squid fry with lemon, Nishigama ramen infused with clam broth, and matcha canele. Many runners expressed their satisfaction, saying, "I'm full."
2. **Scenic course with rich nature, such as tea fields and the sea**
Changed from the 2nd event, a diverse course rich in history and nature was designed. Starting from the city hall, runners enjoyed the cityscape, tea fields, the coastline overlooking Mikawa Bay, railway crossings, and steep hills, running without getting bored until the finish line. The completion rate was 96.48%.
3. **Roadside support from over 2,000 volunteers and local residents**
Warm roadside support from elementary school students to adults is a highlight. Supporters dressed in traditional kasuri attire or cosplay, cheered with message harisen (paper fans), and children gave high-fives, with cheers changing depending on the running area, pushing runners forward.
4. **Operational improvements prepared by reviewing all 530 race reports**
Improvements were made from a runner's perspective to ensure a comfortable start, including changes in baggage check and toilet layout, flow after the finish, creation of vibrancy at the product exhibition venue, placement of water stations, and review of the medical support system. Preparation utilizing good feedback and lessons learned, combined with favorable weather, contributed to the high evaluation of the event.
5. **"Unconventional" communication on official accounts**
To transform the official account from a rigid image to a familiar and approachable presence, the committee not only increased the number of posts but also developed interactive SNS operations with runners. They reacted to posts and replied to over 300 stories within 24 hours with personalized comments on the day of the event, fostering an atmosphere of co-creating the event with runners.
*Race Report refers to evaluations posted by actual race participants, scoring the event's appeal, characteristics, operational safety management, and course setting.
**Comment on Selection from the Executive Committee Secretariat**
We are extremely delighted that the 3rd Nishio Marathon has been selected for the first time in "The 26th National Running Race Top 100" among numerous races nationwide. This award is not only a result of the ingenuity and improvements in event operation through Race Report but also a testament to the cooperation of local residents, runners, and supporters who have collectively built and nurtured this event. We will continue to build an event that runners can enjoy, and through the event, we will strive to operate in a way that conveys the richness and charm of Nishio City. We appreciate your continued support for the Nishio Marathon!!
**Featured in July issue of Monthly Runners, received a donated plaque.**
**◆Nishio Marathon Overview**
* The only full marathon event in Aichi Prefecture where men and women run together on public roads.
* Hospitality with local specialty aid stations such as eel, matcha, and shrimp crackers.
* Course touring the sea, mountains, tea fields, and castle town.
* The 5th event will be held on Sunday, January 17, 2027.
* Organizer: Nishio Marathon Executive Committee
* Official Website: https://nishio-marathon.jp/
* Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nishiomarathon/
**Keywords:**
This "Top 100 Races" selection is based on the genuine feedback from runners posted on the "RUNNET Race Report" evaluation site, operated by the R-bies Sports Foundation, during the one-year period from January to December 2025. This is the first time the Nishio Marathon has been selected. The target race was the 3rd event held on Sunday, January 19, 2025, with 6,410 participants entering the full marathon category and 5,771 runners starting.
*Image quoted from the R-bies Sports Foundation press release.
**Runner Evaluation Points**
The 3rd Nishio Marathon received its highest-ever evaluation score of 90.3 points on Race Report (*). Here are five main evaluation points from various runner comments:
1. **Aid stations offering local specialties such as "Isshiki Eel" and "Nishio Matcha"**
Hospitality with Nishio's food, including local brands like "Isshiki Eel," "Nishio Matcha," and "Mikawa Isshiki Shrimp Crackers," as well as popular aid station menus like squid fry with lemon, Nishigama ramen infused with clam broth, and matcha canele. Many runners expressed their satisfaction, saying, "I'm full."
2. **Scenic course with rich nature, such as tea fields and the sea**
Changed from the 2nd event, a diverse course rich in history and nature was designed. Starting from the city hall, runners enjoyed the cityscape, tea fields, the coastline overlooking Mikawa Bay, railway crossings, and steep hills, running without getting bored until the finish line. The completion rate was 96.48%.
3. **Roadside support from over 2,000 volunteers and local residents**
Warm roadside support from elementary school students to adults is a highlight. Supporters dressed in traditional kasuri attire or cosplay, cheered with message harisen (paper fans), and children gave high-fives, with cheers changing depending on the running area, pushing runners forward.
4. **Operational improvements prepared by reviewing all 530 race reports**
Improvements were made from a runner's perspective to ensure a comfortable start, including changes in baggage check and toilet layout, flow after the finish, creation of vibrancy at the product exhibition venue, placement of water stations, and review of the medical support system. Preparation utilizing good feedback and lessons learned, combined with favorable weather, contributed to the high evaluation of the event.
5. **"Unconventional" communication on official accounts**
To transform the official account from a rigid image to a familiar and approachable presence, the committee not only increased the number of posts but also developed interactive SNS operations with runners. They reacted to posts and replied to over 300 stories within 24 hours with personalized comments on the day of the event, fostering an atmosphere of co-creating the event with runners.
*Race Report refers to evaluations posted by actual race participants, scoring the event's appeal, characteristics, operational safety management, and course setting.
**Comment on Selection from the Executive Committee Secretariat**
We are extremely delighted that the 3rd Nishio Marathon has been selected for the first time in "The 26th National Running Race Top 100" among numerous races nationwide. This award is not only a result of the ingenuity and improvements in event operation through Race Report but also a testament to the cooperation of local residents, runners, and supporters who have collectively built and nurtured this event. We will continue to build an event that runners can enjoy, and through the event, we will strive to operate in a way that conveys the richness and charm of Nishio City. We appreciate your continued support for the Nishio Marathon!!
**Featured in July issue of Monthly Runners, received a donated plaque.**
**◆Nishio Marathon Overview**
* The only full marathon event in Aichi Prefecture where men and women run together on public roads.
* Hospitality with local specialty aid stations such as eel, matcha, and shrimp crackers.
* Course touring the sea, mountains, tea fields, and castle town.
* The 5th event will be held on Sunday, January 17, 2027.
* Organizer: Nishio Marathon Executive Committee
* Official Website: https://nishio-marathon.jp/
* Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nishiomarathon/
**Keywords:**