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The Oita International Wheelchair Marathon, which began in 1981, the International Year of Disabled Persons, as the world’s first marathon race exclusively for wheelchair athletes, has produced numerous world records over the years. It has built a proud history as one of the world’s premier stages, where top athletes from Japan and around the globe continue to test their abilities.
Last year, we were blessed with calm and pleasant weather. In the men’s marathon T34/53/54 class, Marcel Hug claimed his 12th victory with an outstanding time just four seconds shy of his own world record. Fierce competition unfolded across all classes, captivating the spectators.
This year, Aichi Prefecture hosted the 5th Asian Para Games, Asia’s largest celebration of para sports. The predecessor of the Asian Para Games, the FESPIC Games, was proposed by the late Dr. Yutaka Nakamura, who is regarded with great pride in Oita as the father of para sports. The historic first FESPIC Games were held in Oita Prefecture in 1975. In this way, Oita Prefecture has devoted itself for many years to promoting and developing para sports.
This year also marks a major turning point for the Oita International Wheelchair Marathon, which was proposed by Dr. Nakamura and has continued uninterrupted to the present day. To reduce the burden on athletes and make the race more enjoyable for spectators, we have introduced a new course that both starts and finishes at the Oita Prefectural Museum of Art (OPAM). As we embark on this new chapter in the event’s history, a total of 242 athletes have entered the race: 60 athletes from 22 countries and regions overseas, and 182 athletes from 33 prefectures across Japan.
From first-time participants to the world’s leading athletes, each competitor will challenge their own limits. It is my hope that the many enterprises, organizations, volunteers, and everyone involved will come together in support of the athletes and share in the joy and emotion of this event.
“A New Challenge for ALL”. Here in Oita, the birthplace of para sports in Japan, let us all come together to make this year’s event a great success!