RAG MusicAthletics
Wonderful sports day / athletic festival

[March, Foot Races, Dance] Energetic songs and the latest hits to liven up a sports day

When it comes to sports day music, many people might think of classical pieces like ‘Orpheus in the Underworld’ (Infernal Galop from ‘Orpheus in the Underworld’).

However, in recent years, more schools have been using pop songs and anime tracks as background music in addition to the classic staples, making the selection more diverse.

In this article, we’ll introduce lively songs that perfectly match the sports day atmosphere—not only long-standing classics but also popular J-POP tunes among elementary and middle school students.

Use this as a reference for your playlist!

[Marching, Races, and Dance] Energetic Songs and the Newest Tracks to Liven Up Sports Day (141–150)

Cry BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Cry Baby [Official Video]
Cry BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism

An ambitious work crafted by Official HIGE DANDism as the opening theme for the anime Tokyo Revengers.

The song fuses lyrics that brilliantly capture the anime’s worldview with an innovative sound that shifts keys roughly ten times.

It sings of the protagonist’s indomitable spirit in the face of fate, his comeback from setbacks, and the bonds with his friends, inspiring courage and emotion in listeners.

Since its release in May 2021, it peaked at No.

4 on Billboard JAPAN’s Japan Hot 100.

It continued to be a long-running hit, ranking 13th on the year-end chart for 2021.

When you want to strive toward your goals together with your cherished friends, this song is sure to be a pillar of support.

CathartistRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Catharsist [Official Music Video]
CathartistRADWIMPS

An uplifting anthem themed around the drive to better oneself and the bond with teammates, this song overflows with the powerful message that only RADWIMPS can deliver.

Released in June 2018, it was written as the theme song for Fuji TV’s soccer-related programs during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia.

It is also included on the album ANTI ANTI GENERATION and reached No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

As a track that pushes people to give their all toward their goals, it’s a perfect choice for use at school sports days and athletic festivals.

earnest desireSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER’s deeply moving masterpiece that sings about the importance of human connections is included on their album “Ongaku,” released in February 2024.

The song gently conveys how an individual’s happiness is built with the support of many people and the warmth created by a chain of smiles.

The album “Ongaku” also features several tie-in tracks, including the theme song for the film Tokyo Revengers 2 and the anthem for the 103rd National High School Rugby Tournament.

It’s the perfect song for cheering on those practicing for sports days and field days, or for reminiscing about the memories of working up a sweat with your friends.

[Marching, Footraces, and Dance] Energetic Songs and the Newest Tracks to Hype Up Your Sports Day (151–160)

Live in the present.Saucy Dog

Saucy Dog “Live in the present.” Music Video
Live in the present.Saucy Dog

Powerfully singing of youthful passion and hope, this Saucy Dog track was created as a cheer anthem for the 101st All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Portraying growth through overcoming setbacks and hardship, bonds with teammates, and the courage to move forward while staying true to oneself, the song deeply resonates with young people navigating high school life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Released in December 2022, it has become an indispensable fan favorite at their live shows, giving a strong push not only to soccer players but also to students working hard every day for their clubs and school events.

GONGWANIMA

WANIMA「GONG」OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
GONGWANIMA

Starting with a powerful intro where the guitar riff rings out, this fiery track from WANIMA delivers a exhilarating rock sound and an empowering message that resonates deeply.

Released in July 2019 as the theme song for the feature-length anime One Piece: Stampede, the song portrays the feelings of adventurers sailing across vast seas, emphasizing a strong will to face hardships and the importance of bonds with comrades.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you give it your all and step up to the challenge—or when you want to shout out and push yourself forward.

flash[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Flash (MV) Theme Song of Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway's Flash
flash[Alexandros]

With its powerful guitar riffs and energetic performance that stir the soul, this is an epic rock number by [Alexandros].

The lyrics portray a resolve to spread one’s wings into a new world after overcoming conflicts such as loneliness and fear experienced during growth, and they’re sure to encourage anyone standing at a crossroads in life.

Released in May 2021, the song was chosen as the theme for the film Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway and captivated many listeners with its metallic sound.

Its exhilarating, fast-paced groove is perfect for a school sports day relay, igniting the fierce competitive spirit of the racers and making the moments they dash across the field even more memorable.

Chu, diversity.ano

ano “Chu, Diversity.” Music Video
Chu, diversity.ano

This is an aggressive track by ano, marked by dynamic vocals and an energetic sound.

It features a powerful beat that makes you want to move and carries a message about valuing your true self.

Released in November 2022, the song was used as the ending theme for Episode 7 of the anime Chainsaw Man, captivating many fans.

In March 2023, a performance video on the music program THE FIRST TAKE was also released, sparking new buzz.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants to embrace their individuality without fearing being different.

Dance your heart out with friends at a school sports festival, and you’re sure to make amazing memories.