スポーツ｜駒大エース佐藤、骨折乗り越え新記録 / Sports | Komadai ace Sato overcomes injury to set a new record.

Summary

In the 2026 Hakone Ekiden, Komazawa University’s ace runner, Keita Sato, set a new section record of 1 hour and 7 minutes and 31 seconds in the 10th leg, helping his team move up from 7th to 6th place.

Despite having suffered a stress fracture in his femur just a month earlier, he delivered an impressive performance and reflected, “I was able to show my determination as a senior in the end.” This marked his second consecutive section award, following his achievement in the 7th leg last year, which greatly boosted the team’s morale.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Chako: Hey Log, I heard that Sato managed to set a new section record even with his broken bone! That’s amazing, right?
Log: It really is. His performance coming back from an injury is incredible. It might also have something to do with his mental strength.
Chako: Exactly! He said he pushed himself for the team, so he really is the ace!
Navi: The mental aspect of an athlete is believed to significantly impact their performance. Competing under high pressure especially requires mental toughness.
Log: That’s true. Sato’s feelings probably showed in his run.
Chako: I need to do my best too!

Admin’s Note

I was truly moved by Sato’s effort. Overcoming the adversity of recovering from a fracture and achieving a new record is sure to inspire many people. It reminded me once again of the importance of mental strength in sports. The morale of the entire team has also risen, and I’m looking forward to their future performances. We need to ensure we provide solid support for the athletes’ hard work and struggles.