Part 4/8:
What sets the Hakone Ekiden apart from other races is its unpredictability and the dramatic shifts in leadership. Runners often face various terrains, including steep climbs and rapid descents, which can dramatically alter team standings. The unpredictability means that teams, even those ranked low prior to the event, can emerge victorious, creating an air of suspense that captivates audiences. This year’s race included surprising upsets that left the favorites trailing behind, a dynamic that only heightened the excitement.