Nagoya Women's Marathon

The Nagoya Women's Marathon was founded in 1982, during the golden age of mass-participation running. Now 44 years old, it has established itself as a beloved fixture in Nagoya, growing from its early editions into a race with genuine character and loyal following.

The fastest time ever recorded at the Nagoya Women's Marathon is 02:19:47, set by Yuka Ando in 2019. Every year, new contenders line up hoping to challenge that mark on the streets of Nagoya.

Runners come to the Nagoya Women's Marathon for one reason: personal bests. The flat, fast course through Nagoya has a reputation as a PB factory, with the roads seemingly designed to keep your pace honest and your splits consistent from start to finish.

Getting into the Nagoya Women's Marathon is a race before the race. The entry lottery draws far more applicants than available spots, and the notification email — accepted or rejected — has become an annual ritual that defines the running calendars of thousands.