Ekiden runners banner global.

Run together, uplift the world.

Run with your friends and race the global community. Join the Japanese-inspired ASICS World Ekiden and discover the power of teamwork to uplift the world. All levels are encouraged to participate.

Ekiden Runners on track.

First, register for free.

Start by creating or joining a team of up to six runners. Each teammate will run between 5K and 10K, totaling a marathon’s distance.

Next, download the ASICS Runkeeper™ app.

This race is all about teamwork. Download the ASICS Runkeeper™ app to follow your teammates and cheer on each other's training progress. On race day, you'll use the app to track your run.

Ekiden 2 runners on road
Two female Ekiden runner on path.

Race days are November 10–22.

During the official race period, log your leg of the race in the ASICS Runkeeper™ app. Strive to do your best and pass the virtual tasuki to your teammate as fast as you can. Keep an eye on the leaderboard to watch teams around the world complete the race.

Leaderboard available for viewing on November 11, 2021.

It’s time to move your mind.

As you train and race with your teammates, participate in our global study on the uplifting effect of movement on the mind. Use the Mind Uplifter™ tool to see the positive impact of movement and exercise on your mind.

Ekiden runner taking selfie.
Runkeeper Screenshot

Start your training.

Connect with your teammates and try a custom training plan for your assigned distance with the ASICS Runkeeper™ app. Train for the race together and track your uplift by using the Mind Uplifter™ tool.

History Card

A heritage of harmony.

The Ekiden is a Japanese relay that's all about teamwork and friendly rivalry—resulting in a shared feeling of harmony and uplift. During the race, runners pass along a tasuki (or sash) as fast as possible, and while each leg is run separately, teams compete as one.

ASICS runners celebrating.

Celebrate and share.

Reach your goal, post your race results, and share your Mind Uplift with friends and family on social. Make sure to tag #ASICSWorldEkiden.

Gear to keep you running strong.



Dynablast
DYNABLAST™
GT 2000 9
GT-2000™ 9
METARACER™
METARACER™
GEL-Kayano 27 Shoe
GEL-KAYANO™ 27
Runner with ASICS shoes.

Participation Details

How many runners can compete on an Ekiden team?

Ekiden teams are traditionally made up of six team members; however, smaller teams can participate in the ASICS World Ekiden 2021. (If you choose to run with fewer than six team members, some runners will need to complete multiple legs by registering and joining the team more than once.) All six distance spots must be filled and tracked in the ASICS Runkeeper™ app in order to complete the relay.

How do I view my team and track their progress?

You can keep track of your team's progress in the ASICS Runkeeper™ app. Once you're in the app, navigate to the Explore tab and select Races. Tap on ASICS World Ekiden 2021 to view your teammates' current statuses ("completed," "not started" or "in progress").

How do I track my virtual run and record my results?

Track your Ekiden run in real time using the ASICS Runkeeper™ app. When you're ready to start your leg of the race, open the app on your mobile device, navigate to the Explore tab then Races, select ASICS World Ekiden 2021, and tap "Track race now." Now you're ready to run! Once your distance is completed, hit "Stop" in the Runkeeper™ app and save the run. Your completed leg will automatically be posted to the ASICS World Ekiden 2021 results page.

How do I view the leaderboard and my team results?

Starting November 11, leaderboard results will be updated in real time here. Results are not official until the race window has closed on November 22, 2020.

I already have the ASICS Runkeeper™ app. Can I register there?

Yes, you can register for the ASICS World Ekiden 2021 directly in the Runkeeper™ app. Navigate to the Explore tab and select Races, then "Register now" for the ASICS World Ekiden 2021 event to complete the registration process from your device. Once completed, your registration will automatically populate in the ASICS World Ekiden 2021 event in the Races tab.

Can I track my Ekiden run while using a fitness tracker or watch?

Yes, your run can be tracked using an Apple Watch, Garmin or Fitbit! First, make sure your device is paired with the ASICS Runkeeper™ app (more details here), then complete your Ekiden run using your device.

Once completed, in the Runkeeper™ app, navigate to the Explore tab and select "Races." Tap on "ASICS World Ekiden 2021." Select "Link recent activity" under "Track race now." Select your recently completed activity and your results will be posted automatically.

For questions about the ASICS World Ekiden 2021—including how to register, how the virtual race will work, or where you can find the leaderboard—view our FAQs here.