[Ekiden Theme Song] Masterpieces that mirror the act of running—cheering anthems that give you courage

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

With the New Year comes one of the season’s hallmarks: ekiden relay broadcasts that keep many viewers glued to their TVs.

Watching the runners pour their hearts into passing the sash can’t help but move you.

Adding to the excitement are the theme songs that color these programs.

Just hearing them can bring memorable scenes rushing back, or overlap with the images of the runners and bring you to tears.

There are more songs etched into our memories alongside ekiden than you might expect.

In this article, we introduce theme songs used in ekiden broadcasts and tracks featured in commercials.

As you revisit those moments, we hope you’ll find a new favorite tune.

[Ekiden Theme Songs] Iconic tracks that mirror the spirit of running — uplifting anthems that give you courage (11–20)

lightly; nimbly; flutteringlyGReeeeN

GReeeeN / Hirari (All-Japan University Ekiden Special PV Full Ver.)

lightly; nimbly; flutteringlyGReeeeN

An anthem cheering on athletes in pursuit of their dreams.

Released by GReeeeN in November 2023, this song was created as the official theme for the All-Japan University Ekiden broadcast.

It embodies a strong will to move forward by overcoming loneliness and anxiety.

They carefully gathered the feelings of the runners and wove those words into the music.

Crafted by the members with a sense of weight and pride, this piece encourages not only those dedicated to sports but also anyone giving their all in everyday life.

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In conclusion

They were all songs that colored the drama of the runners’ all-out efforts and the passing of the sash.

Just hearing the melodies played during race broadcasts is enough to bring back the excitement and emotion for many people, isn’t it? Ekiden theme songs not only remind us of iconic moments, but also give us a push forward anytime.

Listening to your favorite track might help you take that first step, thinking, “No matter what difficulties lie ahead, let’s keep moving forward.”