We are fully committed to supporting you
in achieving a sub-4 marathon.
Sub-4 (finishing a full marathon in under 4 hours) is a goal admired
ASICS is hosting a new concept marathon specifically focused on achieving a sub-4 time.
A race created for achieving a sub-4 time.
A race created for achieving a sub-4 time.
In Japan, in 2022, out of 262,131 full marathon finishers, only 72,055 runners achieved a sub-4 time. This means that a mere 27.5% of full marathon finishers reached this milestone. “Challenge 4” is a race created to support runners aiming for the sub-4 title, a distinction synonymous with being an accomplished amateur runner.
A flat course designed for aiming at record times.
The venue, Ajinomoto Stadium, features a flat 5km loop course that includes sections of public roads. Because it’s a loop course, there will be plenty of support along the way, creating an environment where participants and supporters come together to encourage and push for a sub-4 finish.
Three levels of pacers tailored to your goal.
You can choose a pacer that matches your goal (3 hours 50 minutes, 3 hours 55 minutes, or 4 hours 00 minutes). Since everyone is aiming for the same goal, the environment is set up to help you maintain your motivation until the very end.
Point
- ◎ A flat 5km loop course
- ◎ With pacers for 3 hours 50 minutes, 3 hours 55 minutes, and 4 hours
- ◎ You can wear your gear and use the restroom right up until the starting gun.
- ◎ There is no congestion on the course, even right after the start.
- ◎ A sense of unity is fostered as everyone strives toward the same goal.
- ◎ You can receive enthusiastic support multiple times throughout the race.
Runner’s voice
“The best pacers” and “the best support.” A sense of unity as everyone strives toward the same goal.
For me, achieving a sub-4 marathon was a dream five years in the making. When I saw the announcement for Challenge 4 last year, I knew immediately that this was my chance. The result? 3 hours, 59 minutes, and 8 seconds. I can confidently say that Challenge 4 is the best stage for anyone aiming for a sub-4 time. What makes it the best? I want to emphasize two things: the pacers and the support. The pacers not only kept a perfect pace, but their motivational words, something amateurs can’t replicate, made a huge difference. Additionally, the collective strength of the group was immense. Everyone was running toward the single goal of achieving a sub-4 time. This sense of unity created an indescribable atmosphere. The support was also incredible. Since everyone in this race is aiming for a sub-4, the quality of the encouragement was on another level. Knowing how much this race meant to us, the support we received was incredibly powerful and gave me a huge boost.