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[Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect for relay race BGM!

Speaking of relays, they’re the event that gets the crowd most excited at a sports day! The music that adds flair to the race is also one of the key elements.

I’m sure you, too, have a song that comes to mind as relay BGM.

In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of tracks—from classic relay staples everyone’s heard to J-pop numbers perfect for a heated competition.

They’re all songs that will make you want to start running, so use them as a guide when choosing your playlist.

[Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect for relay race BGM! (71–80)

AgainWANIMA

WANIMA “Again” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
AgainWANIMA

A rock tune by WANIMA that sings of a strong will to move forward again while overcoming setbacks and failures.

It captures the realization that past experiences shape who we are now, and the determination to take a new step with the courage to stand up again and again.

Released in March 2019 on their 4th single “Good Job!!,” the song also drew attention as the theme for the TBS drama “Maison de Police.” It’s a motivational anthem that gently supports not only athletes but everyone striving toward their dreams and goals.

William Tell OvertureRosshīni

[Yuri Simonov] William Tell Overture Gioachino Rossini: Opera “William Tell”, Overture (March of the Swiss Army)
William Tell OvertureRosshīni

The overture to a grand opera by Rossini, one of Italy’s most iconic composers.

Structured in four parts, it begins at dawn, passes through a storm scene, moves into pastoral tranquility, and then unfolds into a heroic march—a truly masterful progression.

Premiered in 1829, this work became widely known as the opening theme of the American TV series The Lone Ranger and was also used on Fuji TV’s Oretachi Hyokin-zoku, lodging itself in the memories of many.

Its powerful rhythms and dynamic melodies make it perfect for the exit scene at a school sports day, heightening the excitement as participants leave the field and bringing the event to a rousing, resonant close.

The Nutcracker – TrepakPyotr Tchaikovsky

Ballet music The Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a: Russian Dance (Trepak)…
The Nutcracker - TrepakPyotr Tchaikovsky

You’ve probably heard “Trepak” from The Nutcracker at least once on TV variety shows, dramas, or commercials.

Its bright character, driven by a lively string melody, lifts your spirits.

The composer is Pyotr Tchaikovsky, a giant of the classical music world.

As one of his three great ballet scores, it has inspired numerous revisions even more than a century after its premiere.

The brisk feel and fast tempo make it a perfect fit for relay races.

I also recommend using this track on a loop.

[Sports Day] A roundup of exhilarating, fast-paced tracks perfect as relay race BGM! (81–90)

You’re going way too fast!!Momoiro Kurōbā Zetto

Momoiro Clover Z [MV] “You’re Going Way Too Far!!” - MUSIC VIDEO -
You're going way too fast!!Momoiro Kurōbā Zetto

The title is “You’re Going Way Too Fast!!,” but since it’s a relay at a sports day, it’s totally fine to go full throttle! The original song by GARLIC BOYS, “You’re Going Too Fast,” might make you think of alcohol and could carry a different meaning, but the version sung by Momoiro Clover Z, “You’re Going Way Too Fast!!,” has a different nuance and a lot of energy, so wouldn’t it fit a sports day perfectly?

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.

StarmineDa-iCE

Da-iCE / “Star Mine” Music Video
StarmineDa-iCE

A hit song by Da-iCE themed around fireworks that sings about the importance of challenge and perseverance.

Released in August 2022, the track won the Excellence Award at the 64th Japan Record Awards.

It also captured many hearts, racking up 500 million plays on TikTok.

Its driving rhythm and powerful vocals inspire courage in listeners.

It might be the perfect song for a school sports day race or when you want to take on something new.

Da-iCE’s high-tone vocals will boost your motivation as you head into the competition.

Russian DancePeter Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky Nutcracker Suite – Russian Dance Trepak
Russian DancePeter Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Russian Dance is the fourth piece in The Nutcracker, a suite premiered in 1892 as music for a ballet.

The composer is the Russian musician Pyotr Tchaikovsky.

The piece is characterized by its brisk, staccato rhythm and rapid tempo.

I think it’s perfect for relay races that emphasize speed.

The gradual crescendo also heightens excitement, helping relay runners psych themselves up while energizing those cheering them on.